Palin Lies: One Man’s Protest on the Juneau Cruise Ship Docks.

19092008

The huge Anti-Palin rally in Anchorage last weekend got a tremendous amount of media coverage, and support from around the nation. People needed to know that not all Alaskans support Palin as the VP nominee, or share her values. Some may even like Palin as a governor, but find her completely inappropriate on the national (nevermind international) stage. Huge rallies are great, but sometimes a powerful statement can be made by just one person. Here’s a wonderful story sent to me from Doug, a Mudflatter in Juneau, Alaska.

Thanks for standing up and speaking out when it was not easy or comfortable to do so.

Palin Lies: One Man’s Protest on the Juneau Cruise Ship Docks

For starters, I can see the Governor’s Mansion from my front deck.By the McCain/Palin campaign’s standards this would make me an expert on Governor Palin and her family.The problem is that the Palins don’t live in the mansion, unlike the Russians who actually live in Russia.

Last weekend my wife spoke with her Dad who lives in New York.He was concerned that his neighbors had just returned from an Alaskan cruise and had confidently reported that “everyone in Alaska loves Governor Palin.”

So last night I took a piece of cardboard from the garage, found some of my son’s tempera-paints and made a sign.It read “PALIN LIES”, in big green letters.It wasn’t clever, it wasn’t profound.It was just the way I felt.

I vowed to my family that I would go downtown the next morning and mount a one-man protest.

I would start my protest at the State Capitol, go to the Governor’s Mansion then end up at one of the Cruise Ship Docks near the center of town.

I somehow saw myself victoriously squatting on the Capitol steps flashing my sign to dignitaries and legislators (maybe even lawyer Ed O’Callaghan).But once I got downtown I realized that most people entering or leaving the building at this time of year are State administrative staff.I figured all of them already know the deal, and they would shun me anyway, in fear of losing their jobs.

On second thought, the Governor’s Mansion was a no-go as well.The Governor wasn’t at home.No one was at home.One lonely maintenance guy was raking the yard and all the houses in the neighborhood sported Obama signs either on their lawns or in their windows.I’d be preaching to the choir.

No, the cruise ship docks were the biggest bang for my protest buck.Thousands of people from all over the country, maybe world would see me.I had found my audience.I opted for the Holland America dock.It was close to the Red Dog Saloon, a local landmark, and near a series of steps that went from the dock to the street.People would be coming and going.Perfect.

I parked my car by the McDonald’s and went to a nearby barber shop to get a haircut.I didn’t want to be mistaken for a bum during my protest.I returned to the car pulled my sign out, careful to turn the “message” side toward my leg so no one could read it.I walked down to the dock and sat down on one of a series of wide arching steps that led up to a large platform, then the ship.

I positioned myself on one side of the walkway so as not to impede traffic.I put the sign in front of me and balanced my hands on top.I was ready to take my stand.I promised to keep any conversation on point.I was here to let visitors know that not all Alaskans supported Governor Palin.If pressed I would outline a few of her recent lies as they pertained to earmark spending, Troopergate, Alaska’s role as an energy producer and maybe some informative patter about the “Bridge to Nowhere”.

From the start people directly and indirectly stared at the sign.I was surprised how many people smiled.There were out-and-out grins, secret tilted-head grins and the little nod-and-grins.Some folks even turned to face me head-on and flashed me a killer smile with a thumbs-up sign.I was also surprised how many folks said “you are brave to do this.” As if any minute a black SUV was going to pull up and spirit me away.

I was approached by men and women from all over the USA and the world.A middle-aged couple stopped and told me they were from Wisconsin and that they were voting for Obama.Others really wanted to know about the “lies” and many said they had a “bad feeling about her.”A couple from Britain thought her selection to be “ridiculous” and wanted to talk at length about the campaign.

Even a young couple from India joined me, the husband enthusiastically snapping my picture as his wife kneeled behind me saying “this is the first time I have done anything political”.The Canadians and Australians were troubled by her selection and glad to see me “standing up to it.”

There were also lots of casual rubber-neckers and picture-takers but it wasn’t all roses.Some folks were briefly belligerent.The most popular pro-Palin comment I received was “Why don’t you have a job?”When I mentioned to one man that I was a small business owner he said “where is your office, on the sidewalk?”Surprisingly none of these guys asked me any other questions.Just a quick insult and back to the ship for the buffet.

The middle-of-the-roaders looked at me and said “all politicians lie.”I bet I heard this ten times.It took a while for me to formulate my response, which was “But some lies are more hurtful than others.” Later I realized that I sounded just like my grandmother.

Another man, middle-aged in a crisp blue jacket passed me and said “So do you” (as in lie).I don’t know why, but I stood up and called back “What did you say?”He stopped, turned around and faced me.He was standing a couple of steps above me which made him about a head taller.I told him that I was only here to express my opinion.He actually apologized and quietly walked away.

Passing cars honked.Taxi drivers gave me the “thumbs-up” sign.

I was having an oddly good time until the vendor from the Kettle Korn stand across the street started yelling at me.At first I thought he was drunk.He was obviously opposed to my being there.“Get out of here before I come over and kick your f****ing ass!” he screamed.“I mean it! I’ll come over there and kick your ass!”I didn’t really relish the thought of having my ass kicked, but was more afraid this guy would spoil my quiet protest.Of course he also screamed that I should leave “because school kids pass by here.”So school kids would be traumatized by my “Palin Lies” sign and not the sight of some popcorn vendor beating the crap out of a mild-mannered protestor.Go figure.He kept it up for about five minutes.The 20-something tour guides working the booths behind me started to yell back at him.I was afraid it might all end in a little battle royal (popcorn flying, ravens circling) right in front of all the tourists. Finally he stopped, although I noticed afterwards that he was filming me with a video camera.Later, I was told that he is a member of a local Evangelical church.

Shortly thereafter, I was accosted by a couple of 60-year old women from somewhere in the South.They quickly grouped me into an unsavory collective “you-all”.Suddenly they were quoting Palin’s approval rating and Obama’s record as America’s most liberal senator (reminding me they got their information straight from CNN).They were joined by their husbands and a couple of other tourists.They stood over me and shook their fingers.Did I want to be a socialist?Did I remember Jimmy Carter’s administration?Was I really for health care for “all” people? Then they brought out the big gun: “How about Ronald Reagan?”I have to admit at first I was a bit angry, but once Reagan was mentioned I had to laugh.I said something about Reaganomics.More clucking, head shaking and pointing.Finally I defused the situation by asking if they were enjoying their cruise.This seemed to settle everyone down and they walked away with only a small chunk of my butt between their teeth.

I talked with a few more people and decided it was time to go, besides I was starting to get cold.I stood up and headed down the street (opposite the Kettle Korn Stand).I walked less than two blocks when I ran into a group of Veterans for Peace. About ten guys were waving signs and generally having a good time.I flashed my “Palin Lies” sign and got a big cheer and lots of good natured laughs.My morning was complete.

All in all, I’d say about 70% of the folks who saw me were in favor of my little protest (out of probably 200-250 people).My picture was taken about 50 times, and I was featured in a couple videos.I was passed by the local police once and cruised by U.S Customs once (both probably unrelated).My ass was threatened with a “kicking”.My back was patted and my hand was shaken.I was even given a thumbs-down by a 70-year old woman who looked at me, pursed her lips and gave me “the raspberry”.I was called a liar, and also called “my hero”.So here I am at home pouring over the news and thinking…I should go out there again.

Beautiful Man! You must do it again. We all must do it every chance we get. Our election has been turned into a juvenile beauty contest and if they can’t win that way they will steal it if they can. And I’m talking about the republican party here and the umbilical cord to J. Mccain for them to try this ludricrus and dangerous stunt under the conditions that “they” the republicans have inflicted on this country. This should tell all of us just exactly how they feel about us or our chlidren. They don’t give one flying f**k about any of us.

20092008

Kim(00:20:43) :

You are amazing!!!!!!! Please do it again, and then again. And I promise to you that I will do it here in Indiana too. If each one of us raises our voice and demands to be heard, to be seen, it can encourage someone else, cause a ground swell, spreading the truth to Independants and undecided voters and we can go to sleep at night knowing we are helping to save our country with the truth instead lies.

Hey, I have a question. A really inconsequential and utterly irrelevant one.

If Governor Palin fired the cook, who did the cooking for her kids? I mean help me out here. Was it hubby or teens or was the Governor part time? For me, knowing somebody was feeding my brood nutritious meals would have made it easier for me to concentrate on work.

Doug – Glad you still have some butt left. And beautiful work on the sign – did you choose green because it is widely reputed to be the most calming color?😉

20092008

GJ in Idaho(00:48:58) :

Great going Doug. I sat alone for a few hours today wondering where to go with my Obama sign in the car, but didn’t go any further than the store, and pass two gas stations, it was a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk or two gallon of gas. The bread and milk won. Maybe I can put a couple of gallons of gas in the tank tomorrow, I keep hoping the price will drop a few more cents.

Tomorrow I’m going to the County Fair and am going to spend some time in the Dem booth. I sure hope by then the locals will have decided to put Obama//Biden at the top of their ticket on their websites. I have been emailing them all for the past week asking why they are not even linked to the DNC.

Wonderful story! I live on a street with many McCain signs but I have the wonderful Obama “Hope” sign in my front window.
I get lots of comments …….OH WELL…poor misguided things.

20092008

ANONYMOUS(00:51:54) :

People everywhere need to speak up. I went to the anti-Palin rally in Anchorage and came away thinking: people should do this where ever she speaks. It’s really pretty easy and altho the guy in the story went at it alone, there’s no need to. The Anchorage rally wasn’t widely publicized but there was still a big turnout. If there were a central place for information about anti-Palin rallies people would turn out in droves. She is very polarizing and motivates people to action. There are thousands and thousands of people who would love the chance to express themselves.

Do people need permits to assemble?

20092008

Lily(00:57:59) :

Hi there, this is my first time reading this blog, and I just have to say I’m so glad there are people out there like you. Keep it up! if there was an anti palin rally here i would love to be a part of it. I’m sick of Palin and her lies.
-lily from ohio

20092008

DeMo(01:15:04) :

Bravo!

Encore!

One man’s protest spoke for millions.

I’m constantly amazed by people’s small/large acts of courage and patriotism. I don’t think I’ve ever been so proud of my country. In the midst of an election filled with vitriol, at the moment of near-economic ruin, I’ve never been prouder to say I’m American.

Obama/Biden ’08

20092008

A Brit abroad aka Flag Cobra(01:16:15) :

Yay!!! Well done – and as you may have realised, the rest of the world is watching this election closely…

20092008

Jo MacD(01:18:29) :

Fantastic – what a hero!

It takes courage to speak your convictions regardless of the reaction, and it’s a great thing to let others know they’re not alone in judging Palin’s record for what it is.

Liars always need intimidation to get what they want – truth just needs a voice : )

Very brave- and a very good thing to do! And I am sure all of those people on cruise got to have an amusing story to tell!

20092008

Hick Town in W PA(01:24:16) :

@GJ in Idaho
Your local party sounds like mine. Altho’ the idiots party hacks here allowed themselves to be taken over by a retired Republican banker and were even flattered by it. It tore the party apart. Luckily said banker couldn’t win elective office because not all the dems in the county are stupid.

20092008

GT(01:31:26) :

You are the kind of American I know and love. I admire your quiet, calm bravery and community activism. I don’t consider your act to be partisan because you are telling the truth. Palin’s lies are well-documented. ( http://dailysource.org/palin ) On video, no less.

I’m not American but realize that what happens in America affects us all. Keep it up, and good luck.

20092008

GT(01:38:16) :

The chef wasn’t fired. That’s another Palin Lie. The chef was merely transfered. No money was saved.

20092008

SittingPretty(01:38:16) :

I HAVE A QUESTION GUYS. Here’s a repost of a blog post to my myspace regarding SARA PALIN and the energy rebate:

Bogus non-sense.

I got this nasty email tonight.

It all started when I started digging up stuff on Palin that turned me against her, only less than two weeks ago. Yes, I was actually a Palin supporter before finding out all of the DIRT ON HER and her LIES. PLEASE. Spare me your personal attacks just because you’re a Palin supporter, and I am NOT. Here’s her email to me:

“My question to you … would be you seem to be so negative towards her. But I bet you accepted the money SHE pushed thru the house and senate “energy rebate”…. let’s see and you have how many kids that got that extra $1200??? ….$4800 Hmmmm… Plus your husband and yourself?! Nobody seemed to say I dont support Palin so here state of Alaska, here’s the money back. Seems to be a bit two faced if you ask me. ”

My response: Basically I asked her who is she to judge me and personally attack me?

Let’s remember that this energy rebate check was approved before she was even asked to be V.P. And she didn’t give it away with STRINGS ATTACHED. OR DID SHE???????? Hmmm…

———-

What do you guys have to say about it?????

20092008

shoeho(01:39:43) :

Wow, good for you. The Palin pick took many (okay, virtually everyone not intimate with politics) by surprise. Y’all know her way better than those of us from “outside” do. The polls make it sound like some are finally getting the message after two weeks of St. Sarah the Russiaexpert. Let’s hope so. Government like this we don’t need.

20092008

SittingPretty(01:39:55) :

Also let’s not forget that that was not PALIN”S money, was it????

20092008

HarpboyAK(01:41:29) :

As a fellow resident of the People’s Republic of Juneau, I urge you to repeat your performance as often as possible. Next time, try it down by the tram, where there are often more tourists (I’m a cab driver, so I know). Saturday is my day off, so I didn’t see you or you would have had a honk & a thumbs up from me, too.

And I’ve certainly told the cab passengers that ask that many folks in Juneau don’t think much of our absent Governess collecting per diem for living in her own house!

It alarms and saddens me that anyone should think it’s a risky thing to do in this country to make their political views known.

But I live in Vermont, one of two states (besides RI) that Nate Silver says has a 100% chance of voting for Obama, and I myself was hesitant before I put out my Obama sign. Will someone steal it? Will someone deface my car? That we can think any of these things is sad.

Man you ROCK!!
I wish I had seen you there but I was up on the hill toiling away for the state… Unlike our illustrious “queen” who is on her “wasilly hillbillies go to DC” tour. Daily I find myself wishing to be able to do SOMETHING bold to let the world know the truth as we Alaskans do. But with the economy going down the toilet I really can’t risk losing my job. Can’t piss off the boss lady you know.
So instead I will sit quietly in my house & work the blogs. Great post. I will keep my eyes open for your encore. If I see you I’ll bring you a hot cup of coffee.

20092008

NY Dem(02:36:41) :

Speaking of the chef, now that Todd and Sarah are off on their whirlwind campaign tour, just WHO is cooking for the tots at home ? Are they getting nutritious meals, or are they ordering pizza and Chinese food every day ?

Are the 5 kids living in the house alone, fending for themselves ?

What about the newborn with Downs, has his mother already forgotten about him, because she is too busy on the campaign trail ?

Who is seeing to it that the pregnant one gets the necessary pre-natal care from a doctor ?

Seems like these parents have completely forgotten about their children (until they NEED them for a photo op again) !

20092008

Frank aka. Lier Skunk Palin(02:38:45) :

lemonfair, I totally agree with you. We have become a very arrogant self righteous people. I see it everyday on all the blogs I read. Ripping into someone b/c they spelled a word wrong, or wrong sentence construction. Parents starting fights over a little league game. These are the people who fit perfectly with the Mcain/Palin ticket. The good news is. There are many more people out there, who know the difference between good and evil. You have the same rights as anyone else. HECK, live on the edge. Put two signs out there.

20092008

Maggie(02:57:38) :

Democracy at work. Thanks for taking a stand and a sign. I got a lecture in my basement the other day from the furnace repairman who went on about Obama and socialism—straight from Rush Limbaugh. Unfortunately people who are influenced by Rush are not apt to come to Mudflats or any other “socialist” site. Sometimes it’s pretty discouraging that the only centered news is coming from lefty sites like Daily Kos and Huffington Post. The truth about Palin’s mendacity and incompetence is still being ignored by the MSM for fear of seeming “biased”—the word now seems to mean “unpleasantly truthful.” I don’t speak in tongues myself, but I am praying for the Lord to make a way for Ms. Palin to return home to Alaska permanently and be impeached.

20092008

Naniboujou(03:01:57) :

I really liked the fact that Doug had the foresight to get a haircut before he did his protest. The more we can look to the undecideds as one of their own, the more our words are taken seriously. Many protesters are marginalized because the intended audience can’t see past the appearance of the protester.

You go, Doug!

20092008

Zim in Oz(03:15:12) :

Well done to Doug.

If you think a lone voice can do nothing….spend the night in a dark room with a mosquito !

(LOL or something like that)

20092008

Sam aka Blaster Commando Palin(03:17:09) :

Thanks for your bravery and the good story!

20092008

White Agate(03:20:02) :

This takes a ton of courage…if I were there I would get you a coffee and stand with you. Maybe you will have some folks joining you in the future, there is safety in numbers.

Brilliant! Inspiring! Congratulations from UK. We need people like you, who are willing to speak out in truth.

20092008

Catherine aka Bullpen Cola Palin(03:35:22) :

Doug = guts.

Way to go, man.

And it isn’t just politics – people are stupid about a lot of things. I live in Michigan, and one of the biggest college sports rivals of the University of Michigan is Ohio State. Any Michiganians traveling to Ohio for a game are advised to rent a car if possible, so they don’t reveal they are from Michigan by their plates. How stupid is that – it isn’t two gangs infringing on one another’s turf, it’s a college sporting event! Some people are just stoopid.

20092008

Pradicchi(03:43:34) :

Thanks Doug for standing up for what you believe in! I feel we’ve all been somehow cowed by the past 8 years of being spied upon, denigrated, seeing our civil rights chipped away, insulted both financially and intellectually — the tide is turning, and Palin seems to be a major catalyst (could this be the one good thing she does in this life?). Bravo, if I were there I’d stand right by your side.

AKA Stepper Choke
Steppin’ out for Obama/Biden, Chokin’ on McPain

20092008

Strike Chipper Palin(03:51:08) :

Awesome work – wouldn’t it be hysterical if Alaska voted Blue this election?

High approval ratings my ass.

I live in Florida and just joined in the efforts of our new local Obama office, we actually have a shot at turning this state Blue too!

I’m glad the intelligent people are standing up to be counted, way to go Doug, hopefully next time you venture out there will be several thousand by your side, run and hide Pain/McIdiot supporters – the truth train is coming through!!!!

20092008

Quiet Advocate(03:52:41) :

Thanks for sharing this humorous and enlightening story! I read it chuckling, thinking that my kids would say that they could see me doing this! Maybe if I had been born a man… I don’t want to be kicked in the”ass.” Seriously, when there is dishonesty of this level, we must all do what Doug did, being unafraid and willing to speak out. That’s the only way we can change this world.

Amazing how some, stress on the some, people feel that free speech only applies to them. It’s also interesting that the supporters of Palin feel it’s necessary to resort to profanity and abuse when they feel threatened.

As for socialism, just how do the McCain/Palin shills explain the trillion dollar bailout of Wall Street at taxpayer expense? A Republican president and the Republican “I’m a maverick reformer here to clean up Washington with my corruption fighting non-testifying vice-president” candidates but first we need to bailout all the liars and thieves in banking because they’re our friends. Don’t worry America we’ll start cleaning things up after we get elected.

20092008

nonni_g(04:20:20) :

OH BRAVO FOR YOU!!!! don’t be suprised if you are joined by other quiet protesters in the near future. Good for you..keep us posted on your progress

BO/JO 08

20092008

Phyllis(04:24:37) :

Thank you from the Lower 48! I love this blog and I LOVE your heroic tale! A protest of one takes a lot of courage! Thanks for the protest, and thanks for sharing your story about it!

20092008

Granmaj(04:26:51) :

Good for you. Very brave. Thanks for telling the truth.

An old white woman for Obama.

20092008

proud2busa(04:29:40) :

Congrats and Way to Go, Doug!

Sometimes, we Southerners are a little slow, although I applaud that group for also listening to CNN, versus just Fox.

Next time, one of us come up to you and mention Reagan and Obama’s liberal policies, take this stab:

– It’s a Republian President who has bailed out to the tune of a trillion dollars several companies, which the US Government now basically own. THAT is Socialism, my friend, and in no small part, thanks to McCain’s economic advisor, Phil Gramm.

– Reagan was for less government and a balanced budget. (If they are over 40, they will/should know that.) Thus far, the current administration has ballooned the government with Homeland Security, expanded FBI roles, etc. and has blown our budget out of the water, to the point that many analysts are wondering if it can be salvaged. And btw, the Congress, been Republican held for 7 of those years. McCain’s economic arguments don’t hold water. . . you can’t lower taxes on borrowed money.

20092008

jude(04:37:33) :

Thanks Doug–You are very talented, where is your blog site? Keep up the good work!

I just want to say, from the bottom of my heart, thank you Doug.
You and the folks here at Mudflats are proof that one voice CAN make a difference.
One Voice + One Voice + Many More Individual Voices = Choir !

It ocurred to me watching the news last night that there should be some protests down on Wall Street catching financial workers as they come and go from work. That crowd needs to be shamed into getting their act together (at least in 1929 people were still honorable enough to jump out of windows without golden parachutes). It should no longer be considered clever and laudible to rip off people’s retirement money and pensions. Any New Yorkers reading this?

I also think there should be something called “Crimes against the Economy” though I’m not sure we could keep Wall Street open if there were.

20092008

epic(04:55:31) :

Off topic I know but, could anyone tell me if it’s ok to hunt witches from a helicopter and, is a permit required?

Way to go, Doug! Delightful story. I read it aloud to my family this morning, and we all agree, you’re AWESOME. Enthusiastic applause coming your way from the east coast!!

20092008

greta(05:02:18) :

wow doug, you are something else. kudos to you. it sure would be a huge statement if others started to do the same thing.

speaking of palin’s lies……. keith olbermann made good on his promise last night. $100 to the alaska special olympics for every lie she actually spoke from 9.10 – 9.19 (not those released by her handlers), he made the check out while on air after counting up the actual lies:

as i write this i can’t help but think that a future lie will be….. how she stimulated funding for alaska.

20092008

MissSue aka Barrel McRaven Palin(05:03:29) :

Thanks for sharing this story. Such bravery. It’s difficult to stand up sometimes.
________________
SittingPretty (01:38:16) : And she didn’t give it away with STRINGS ATTACHED. OR DID SHE???????? Hmmm…
What do you guys have to say about it?????
___________________SittingPretty, I think my answer would have been “Palin didnt GIVE me anything, the money wasn’t hers to start with.”
No one needs to feel guilty about cashing that check and not voting for her. The two things are not related. I find it funny that the defenders of SP, aka Post Turtle Palin, always use negatives against others as a defense. She has no substance of her own.
——-
Quote in local Detroit Newpaper today: If Democrats can’t win the election this year, they should get out of politics and find another job.
Boy is that the truth. Considering just the state of the economy, there’s NO WAY there should even be a question about who should be in charge again.

FiveThirtyEight.com says that pollsters are beginning to use cell phones in their surveys. From this data, the site calculates that the averaged polls are undercounting Obama’s strength by about 2.2 percent— not much, they say, in a standard marketing survey but HUGE in a close election. Plugging these figures into their projections, the site shows Obama has a nearly 80% chance of winning the election. They calculate a landslide electoral victory for Obama with 318.5 electoral votes.

20092008

Jackie Lee(05:07:11) :

I am reminded of the dignified older woman who stood quietly outside a McCain event with a small sign that simple said McCain = Bush. The police escorted her out of the area with threats to arrest her.

She remained so level-headed as the officers who intimidated and pressed her away. She said something like, “Is there something wrong with being equated with Bush?”

You know the event was filled with people who had voted for Bush at least twice. Now they are ready to foist another one of their choices on the public while pretending Bush doesn’t exist.

Kudos to this brave protester! His story started my day off on a high note!

20092008

Linda(05:07:25) :

Just wanted to say, I am an 65-year-old white woman living in the south, Georgia, to be exact. I am totally in Obama’s court so all in the south not like others would think. I would love to see Georgia go blue. I am under the radar here because when registering, we do not have to state which party we are associated with. So tickled when I hear others saying just who would not vote for him, hehe, older white women….

Thanks, Harley! I won’t be around for a bit because I have a LOT of work to do.

20092008

jude(05:14:14) :

Go Linda–from a 60 year old white woman from Georgia!

20092008

TheraP(05:19:05) :

Here’s my story!

On the very day that mcShame accepted the nomination, our chimney sprang a leak. That’s the bad news. And the other bad news was when the contractor said they couldn’t do all the repairs for a few more weeks.

Here’s the good news: They told us they could cover the chimney (and ours is gigantic!) with a huge blue tarp.

Yesterday afternoon, they showed up with the tarp. While they did their work, I headed to Home Depot. To get the best white spray paint I could find.

Cheaper than one yard sign, my chimney now says OBAMA in huge white letters – on both sides.

America, stand up! Stand up for change! Stand up for honesty! Stand up in any way you can think of!

My next plan? I need a big Obama sign to hang from my bicycle as I ride it. I may spend more and more time bicycling – especially where I think it will do some good. (I’m nearly retired… and one of the white-haired ladies who can get away with this!)

The more of us who stand up, the more the undecideds will realize there’s a majority who care about our nation and each other.

In my view the biggest difference between Dems and Repubs is this: We care about all Americans. (Health Care, etc. for all!). And they care about a few, while lying to the rest.

What an inspiring story! THANK YOU Doug. And please, go back again and bring some friends along if you can. I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s sick of hearing about Palin’s ridiculous approval ratings in Alaska.

I’m posting a link to this story in the forum at http://www.republicansforobama.org. That’s right, Republicans for Obama. I like to say we’re a bunch of real mavericks who take Country First seriously. We’d love to hear an Alaskan perspective!

20092008

dowl(05:22:27) :

Congratulations for literally standing up for what you believe in–lying is not a good thing to do especially when the stakes are so high and this country appears to be tilting in a quite dangerous direction.

Thanks for standing up and speaking truth to power. Many here in Chicago (South Side) support your courage and conviction. I sincerely hope that the truth will be known as people vote their clear consciousness on Nov. 4th. We stand up tallest when we vote based on issues and not for chronic charismatic liars.

Excellent! Good for you, Doug.
I have spent many hours at a local intersection holding up Bush Lies,Thousands Die signs and other similiar things… and the public reaction is usually much more favorable than not. And the few that are not seem to have a vocabulary that is limited to the F word and only a few other words suggesting things that I suspect they have tried for themselves.
Now if only those who agree with us would please go to the polls…
Very brave. Proud of you!

20092008

Jeanne(05:28:02) :

Doug,

I was so inspired by your quiet protest! I live in FL and my small city just got it’s official Obama campaign office. Until now, I was feeling to small to make any difference. Your bravery has given me the courage to go and volunteer.

Thank you Doug, thank you beautiful people of Alaska and America!

20092008

TheraP(05:30:20) :

Lifting this directly from a tpm thread:

I wonder if Pinocchio Palin has asked to dereg the sun bed industry?

All this deregulation I mean if Mccain keeps on this angle at some point does he become a Sex Pistols lyric?

“I am an anarchist! I called my wife a c*** and she was pissed. I choose a VEEP who lies more than a Larry Craig bathroom tryst. I want my POW ass kissed! My policies have less beef than a vegan shopping list! I am an anarchist!”

Lol it was awful but I am chuckling🙂
Posted by jessran
September 20, 2008 9:12 AM | Reply | Permalink

20092008

jude(05:32:16) :

‘Older Southern White Women Reject McCain/Palin’—Want to form a group?

20092008

Cassie Jeep Pike Palin (Wish I were Trout)(05:34:11) :

Lemonfair re: would your sign be stolen….

Story to relate:

One daughter lives in Boston and put an Obama sign out in her front yard in Feb or March of this year. When the race with HRC was very close, her sign got stolen…stakes and all.

After Palin was selected, daughter’s sign was returned to her, reverently laid on her front lawn, stakes and all!

I think the number of Anti-Palin signs is going to grow between now and November, until you will be hard pressed to find a street corner in Anchorage, or many other Alaska towns that does not feature at least one hand lettered sign telling everybody who passes that Sarah Palin is singlehandedly destroying Alaska’s reputation and that it is time for her to go.

I must have a piece of poster board around here somewhere.

20092008

kate aka chin duststrap(05:35:04) :

Thanks Doug. It takes a lot of courage.

20092008

elizlucinda(05:36:08) :

Way to go Doug: We need more people like you to stand up to the bullying crowd!

I am a Canadian and I just watched someone from Fox News have a small meltdown because a Canadian reporter actually wrote a critical article about Sarah Palin. Apparently she didn’t like the “Redneck” comment!

By the way…do female reporters have to have blonde hair to work for Fox News?

20092008

Gina(05:38:43) :

Way to go Doug – you are an inspiration!

TheraP – I love how you turned a construction setback into an opportunity!

Someone asked this a while back on another thread, and I wonder the same thing. Why is caring about all people (healthcare, eg) a BAD thing? I don’t understand the “What are you, a socialist?” comment Is it difficult to understand that a healthy society is better for all of us? Am I evil for thinking so? I don’t get it.

20092008

BJA(05:39:38) :

Nicely done! Bravo!

20092008

antsy(05:44:06) :

Thank you Doug for your courage and conviction. One person making such a powerful statement. It is a loftier deed, once you share this experience with such a well-written piece. Your family must be very proud.

As we read your story we can take heart someone made the journey to reach a few or many in the real world. This wasn’t an easy task to undertake alone.

Let’s all make our signs, dare to share our opinions (just like those who oppose you do) and vote!

Thanks, Harley! I won’t be around for a bit because I have a LOT of work to do.
================================

I have some things to attend to myself today, I can not wait to get back home.
I will see you then plwalsh>/b> and everone else as well.

I hope when I get thousands more Alaskans have done the same as Doug!

Again, You Go Doug !

BBL

20092008

Linda in Virginia(05:45:52) :

Doug, Thank you for your act of conscience and for the wonderful description of your protest. Kudos for keeping everything cool in the face of anger–makes your protest so much more effective.

Nothing wrong with sounding like your grandmother!

Yet another older Southern white woman voting for Obama!

20092008

TheraP(05:49:45) :

Not sure if you’ve seen this anti-mcShame ad:

20092008

TheraP(05:50:46) :

Gina, you’re right. Healthy society – Better for all.

20092008

cc(05:53:01) :

Nice going Doug! I just lovd your story!

20092008

Rutabaga(05:53:36) :

This is very inspiring, bravo!

20092008

marti(05:55:00) :

Does anyone know anything more about the post that the Dept. of Law is in chaos due to Colberg leaving and I think the post said not coming back, jumping ship or something like that. Anyone know if there is anymore to that, or where that post is?

20092008

rachelbirds(05:56:37) :

I love this post! We
all need to take a page from
Doug’s play book and act.

It took me about an hour over tea this morning to read through most of the over nite posts here and a couple other threads I’m following. I just had to share, my the view of my Repub Uncle who use to be the Attorney Governor of ID in the ’70’s but wanted to be an Elmer Gantry style preacher before his folks made him go to law school so he wouldn’t starve to death. Anyways, he always use to say, “the truth is what I say it is, as long as I can put a Bible verse behind it.”

The trouble with the Christian right is they really believe what they say is the truth, just because they have read the bible and are able to talk.

The rest of us know a lie when we hear it, and don’t use the bible as another weapon of mass distruction.

20092008

SmartWomanVoter(05:59:49) :

Ha Ha. Great Job! Keep up that American Spirit!

20092008

Whabs, Seattle, WA.(06:03:52) :

@ Sitting Pretty
RE: “Let’s remember that this energy rebate check was approved before she was even asked to be V.P. And she didn’t give it away with STRINGS ATTACHED. OR DID SHE???????? Hmmm…”
Have you seen the Geico commercial where the lizard says…”People LIKE you when you give them money!”
Cream Baby, cream.

Hi, Jude… Nice to hear from another Georgia gal.. Thanks Doug for your standing up and even though I say a few you alls, my talk is southern but very liberal. Listening to some of the news here we heard people in Alaska totally happy with Palin, what a great rating she has and reading this post really brings light to people in other parts of the country. I am totally following refusal by most to testify about the troopergate situation when hearing how she wanted to held accountable. I hate to say but have not voted in years and years but I am totally energized by Obama and Biden and feel light at the end of the tunnel for us. My husband also fell into the same category of not voting; however when telling him about why he should want to vote, reconsidered and now going along on the bandwagon. He was in the group that at 1 time not allowed to drink from the same water fountains, use the same bathrooms, ride in the same place on the buses, share a meal at the same restaurants, stay at the same hotels as I have always been allowed to do and he, I told him, of all people should want to see a person elected president who reflects best on diversity, real hope for the future, a shining light.

20092008

Ohio Sue(06:05:46) :

That really lifted my spirits – Thanks so much, Doug.

20092008

drchill(06:06:24) :

Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total; of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.

Doug – THANK YOU from Virginia. I can’t get over how many people in the US have no idea what’s going on in Alaska. I point everyone to this blog. I’m thrilled that all those people from the cruise ship got a good look at your sign. I guarantee that story will be told as soon as they get home! I only wish there were a crowd of Dougs at every cruise ship in port! You’re MY hero!

20092008

BOHICA(06:11:10) :

I walked less than two blocks when I ran into a group of Veterans for Peace. About ten guys were waving signs and generally having a good time. I flashed my “Palin Lies” sign and got a big cheer and lots of good natured laughs. My morning was complete.

We always have a good time. I’m down in PDX, VFP Chapter 72. If you want to contact the Juneau chapter, their website is here.

Regular Meetings
We meet on the second Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Northern Light United Church, 400 11th St., Juneau, AK. These meetings are usually over by 7:00 or 7:30 p.m.

We also meet on the third Saturday of each month at 8:00 a.m. at The Back Room, Silverbow Inn-Bakery, 120 2nd St., Juneau, AK. These meetings are usually over by 10:00 a.m.

Prospective members and guests are welcome to attend.

My cardboard sign says, “One eyed Vietnam vet will factcheck for food”. I have crossed off “food” and substituted “health care”. I stand outside the front of the local fishwrap, The Oregonian, with it.

20092008

Whabs, Seattle, WA.(06:13:16) :

@ Epic
RE: “Off topic I know but, could anyone tell me if it’s ok to hunt witches from a helicopter and, is a permit required?”

I believe you need to do it from a broom (swiffers don’t count). If you use the broom, a permit is not required.

An inspiring story, you are quite brave. Since I live in Southern California, most of us are voting Obama and it isn’t very “aggressive”. I even live in a military town in San Diego. Although, I admit my older parents are voting for the Republican ticket and I’ve tried debating this, but it ends up being World War III. Unfortunately, I do think it’s attributed to race…it’s so sad. Obama is a much better candidate and it will be a shame if he’s not elected. I’m surprised that many will let race get in the way of country – it’s shameful. Keep doing what you are doing – everyone needs to get out and proudly put up their signs for Obama/Biden!

20092008

Women who run with the Wolves(06:27:10) :

How brave of you Doug to protest down here in Southeast Alaska. Her lies and continuing lying is so utterly disgusting! Her sick reference to saying, Thanks, but “NO THANKS”! for the bridge to no where is so misleading. Ketchikan is a community of over ten thousand people. The airport is across the channel. Everytime a jet comes in, whether it’s for daily travel or a life threatning medevac up to Providence or to Seattle, you have to schedule a ferry ride across the channel to get to the airport! She is not only lying about the bridge, but also making fun of Southeast Alaska for her own political gain. The women is utterly devoid of any moral compass.

20092008

Anonymous(06:29:57) :

Doug, you are my hero!!!!

Hi Linda and Jude, I’m from Augusta, Georgia!!!

20092008

Grammy(06:31:11) :

OK, let’s look at Palin’s claim that she is prepared to deal with Russia by looking at the area that she lives next to (?) – pretty far from Wasilla, I’d say and I’ll bet she’s never been to Little Diomede! And it sure is far from Moscow, too!

Hi Linda and Jude. I’m from Augusta Ga. I wish our red state could turn blue!

20092008

robinshood2(06:39:23) :

There seem to be a lot of Vermonters on this site. I am a neighbor from the other side of the river.

Many folks don’t realize that had New Hampshire gone for Gore in 2000 that Florida wouldn’t have mattered. The Gore camp had written off NH as a rock ribbed republican state. But in 2004 we were the only state that went from red to blue. The difference? Independent voters. We’re the ones who provide the tip one way or the other.

NH has always liked McCain, but this is not the same man they voted for in the past. And Palin’s ideas do not fit with the state’s libertarian leanings (we are a civil union state, for one thing).

Please, Vermonters, since your state is a lock, cross the river and give us a hand. If Gore had come to NH, visited the colleges, and organized a push for younger voters the world would be a different place. Obama offices can use your time here or just wear your Obama buttons when you visit. Keene and Hanover are friendy target areas with colleges.

20092008

Amused and Bewildered(06:40:17) :

Doug, thank you! What a great way this was to start my day. Re: the “all politiicans lie” thing, all I have to say to that is that some lies are more dangerous than others. And some people.😉

Bravo to you for your efforts and again, thanks for the well-written morning read to accompany my cup of coffee. Better than any newspaper!

20092008

Joe C(06:42:11) :

I’d like to come over to Alaska and stand on Doug’s right with my sign:

“I AGREE —>”

20092008

Suzanne(06:42:50) :

For anyone with better computer skills than me please share the following (I don’t know how to hyper link) But what I would like to share is….

Andrew Sullivan (a conservative columnist) at the The Atlantic has written several columns about Palin’s lies. The latest on Sept 17 (please google)

Also, last night on “Real Time with Bill Maher” he talked about the 12 proovable Palin lies. Please google and watch. Well worth viewing and sharing.

More and more, even conservative columnist are calling Palin “unqualified” and not ready for the job.

I believe that McCain picking SP as his running mate truly endangers the security of our country. She could easily become president within a year because McCain is not healthy. God help us all if this happens.

Way to act on you democratic rights and freedoms, Doug. Good on you, mate.

20092008

Rust Mustang Palin(07:04:19) :

Yes Doug is a hero–thank you, Doug–but it brings a tear to my eye that in the “land of the free and the home of the brave” bravery has become expressing an opinion, more especially one backed up by facts.

Have thousands of brave young Americans and hundreds of thousands of Iraqis died or been maimed that we may export this kind of freedom?

Doug…fantastic story–very inspirational. Thanks for sharing. Isn’t it a bit staggering that people outside the US immediately see what’s going on with the GOP yet, within the US, about half the people seem oblivious or don’t care about what’s really going on? Keep up the good work! Democrat Dave

20092008

Jingo Killah(07:14:27) :

Observation about CNN coverage: On the CNN website, there is an article that speaks of a rally protest group – Blacks Against Obama – attended by TEN people. CNN did NOT cover the 1400 person “Alaskan Women against Palin” protest.

Please vet. Please come up with something pithy to say on CNN comments boards, and post. I’m sick of hearing ‘liberal bias’ and observing something 140 times biased in the other direction.

Doug – You are awesome & so brave for going out there and doing it! This fellow Alaskan thanks you!

20092008

furysmom(07:20:48) :

Nothing to add to what has already been said but I wanted to pass on my thanks for doing this!

20092008

Girl in TX(07:20:57) :

Keep up the great work!

20092008

Sheesh aka Puck Mule Palin(07:23:04) :

A big tip of the hat to a brave man! What a fabulous story to wake up to today…I am encouraged!!! I’m starting my postcards today for the campaign. Between now and Nov. 4th I’m doing something everyday to promote the Obama campaign and work on those undecideds. It’s up to all of us to make this happen.

20092008

HamletsMill aka Rot Pipeline Palin(07:25:05) :

Thank you Doug for your action. And thank you for the excellent well written account.

We are still (hopefully) a nation where people can fully speak their mind. Everyone of us must now act in any peaceful way we can.

When I lived in Europe, I had a friend who told me of an experience he had in WWII. He had been a member of the Dutch resistance. In 1943 there had been an incident in Rotterdam where a German soldier had been killed. In retaliation the Germans started to randomly round up Dutch citizens in the neighborhood where this took place and execute them five at a time. One day from behind the curtains of his flat both he and his wife watched the scene on the street unfold of such an execution. They were both horrified but could do nothing. The firing squad was formed up. But just as they were about to fire, one of the German soldiers threw his rifle down onto the ground and refused to participate. There was consternation. Finally they then took that German soldier and put him with the Dutch citizens and executed him too. He told me this account in the very room before the very window where he had seen this. This was in 1971 so it was now 28 years later. He said to me that every Dutch person on that street who witnessed this still spoke of that German soldier every day 28 years later. Hitler was gone from the Earth. The ideology of Nazism was gone from the Earth. But everyone still spoke of that German soldier 28 years later.

As we all know, the lesson of Nazism was for all people everywhere to never empower an ideology and system of lies so it may spread. We all know this. This is why we must stand for the truth and fairness of every situation bit by bit. In our democracy it is the absolute duty of citizenship. I hope it never comes for any of us to what that German soldier had to do for his soul. That is why we must all peacefully stand for truth and speak the truth every day. Every one of us must do this now. You have given us a good example and I thank you very much.

20092008

Cynamen(07:26:45) :

Sir Doug~

I too, add my voice to the choir…to wholeheartedly say “thank you” for the sheer beauty and simplicity of your “solo sonnet.” Let us all speak with one resounding voice on Nov. 4th. Again Sir, we sincerely applaud the boldness of your conviction ~ and know that you are never standing alone.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

20092008

Shirley(07:28:18) :

Thanks so much for an uplifting story. I have a suggestion for the people of Alaska. Vote against McCain/Palin in the Presidential election. If Obama wins, you can then hold her accountable for the Troopergate situation, the per diem payments, etc. Then you can elect someone who truly does want the best for Alaska and not be worried about her vindictiveness. Like my 83 year old mother just said, “I can see right through her!”

20092008

povertykidsteacher(07:31:07) :

Thanks for the great idea! I’m making my sign today. This is generally pro Obama territory (city of the 75,000 Obama audience last summer), but I’m the only Democrat on my street and there’s only one other Obama sign within several square miles. Only a few more weeks to speak out, people!!!

20092008

Julie Arizona(07:32:06) :

I wanted to pass a website on to you which makes it very easy to register to vote and/or ask for an early ballot.

I volunteer at a Senior Center and we were talking about the election. Several mentioned that they just couldn’t get to the polls or wait in line. So the next time I went, I took my laptop with me, registered those that weren’t registered and asked for early ballots for most of them. (I was tempted to register only those who pledged to vote for Obama, but my conscience got the better of me).

I’m sure you know elderly people or shut-ins or people who just don’t want to bother with goint to the polls. Don’t just tell them about early voting, do it for them (not the voting). Have a ballot sent to them.

From Lori: I read Mudflats, a wonderful blog on the Palins, Alaska politics, and the truth. This blogger has a witty, slightly snarky writing style, which I love. I have to share one of his blog posts, the story of…

20092008

Wired Differently(07:36:52) :

I think one of the most remarkable moments of Doug’s story is when he confronted the man who said, “So do you.” Because it’s true, we all lie. And although we can easily see the difference in degree between our own lies and Sarah Palin’s (I hope!), when you’re in the vulnerable situation that Doug placed himself in, and you get that solar plexus chakra rush, it’s not easy to respond well. Bravo Doug!

My 21-year-old daughter is traveling to a nearby swing state this weekend to canvass for Obama. I am a little fearful that she will encounter people like the kettle korn vendor, but I am proud that she is one of the millions of people, including Doug and AKM and Hollis French and Stephen Branchflower and Shannyn Moore and many more, who are working, each in their own way, to take our country back from the thieves and liars.

Thank you from the bottom of my socialist baby-killing maggot heart!

WD aka Rogue Mentality Palin

20092008

scruncher(07:37:22) :

Excellent work, man! If you so choose to do it again, remember, we’re all with ya!

20092008

Audrey in Oregon(07:37:33) :

@Bohica 6:11

When and where do the Vets for Peace meet in Portland?

Great job, Doug!

Go BO/JO

20092008

Joe C(07:38:35) :

Doug’s one man protest was followed by followed by comments of support for him exercising the democratic freedom we believe makes us special as Americans. But that right has been eroded. Doug, as an independent business owner, was more secure than most of us.

We are reminded of that in the comment from SEAlaskanWoman (02:34:35) : (02:34:35) :Daily I find myself wishing to be able to do SOMETHING bold to let the world know the truth as we Alaskans do. But with the economy going down the toilet I really can’t risk losing my job. Can’t piss off the boss lady you know.

McCain promises a bipartisan administration that will reach out across the aisle. But then he partners with Palin, a person with a track record of vindictiveness who goes after and fires anyone who doesn’t pass her loyalty test.

Look at what we have learned about the past 8 years. Government workers are asked about their party loyalty. Federal prosecutors are fired for not passing the test. These who disagree with administration policy are not just unpatriotic but they are called traitors. Much of this, and the Joe Wilson/Valerie Plame situation, was orchestrated from the office of the Vice President.

The machinery for all of that will still be in place on 20 January 2009. Do you really want Palin stepping into that office and making upgrades? Or, do you want someone to go in there to clean it out?

20092008

Terpsichore(07:39:51) :

I’m encouraged to hear from previous FLA posters that Obama offices have sprung up in their neighborhoods. My husband just reported one opening up across the street from the theatre he works at (and where I’ll be working shortly!) and I plan to go over before rehearsal sometime and see what I can do to help out. And yes, donate.

Obama’s got no leadership experience my ass. He lead a presidential campaign that beat Hilary Clinton – no offense to the senator or her supporters, she would have been a better choice than McCain/Palin also – and he seems to be doing exactly what is needed to keep us grassroots people doing what we’re doing (getting out and showing our true feelings), while his campaign stays focused on the issues. Nothing short of brilliant.

Doug, you are an inspiration, and yippee for mudflats!

20092008

Linda(07:40:33) :

Nor did CNN mention about Facebook’s “1,000,000 strong against Sarah Palin”, which now stands at 50,000.

PRIOR POST: The chef wasn’t fired. That’s another Palin Lie. The chef was merely transfered. No money was saved.

Money was probably lost. They took this person, well trianed to prepare food in a kitchen and plan meals with all the ordering and lots of other administrative and organizational skills – but not known for requiring a lot of supervisory skills or customer service skills – and put her in a customer service job.

20092008

Laurie(07:44:33) :

Good morning folks. Have you been watching the news. The Marriott Hotel in Pakistan has been hit with what reports are saying is a suicide bomb. The pundits of course are reporting that this will bring McCain back up. Will this never end?

Why why why…would people believe that John McCain is the one to look to for foreign policy? What has he ever done except promote war? Why is Obama looked at as weak on this issue. My god…I would rather have an Obama rather than a McCain at this time. This is frightening.

20092008

Jeri a.k.a. Bullpen Cola Palin(07:44:34) :

Please e-mail or ask anyone you know (who cares!!) to sign the Troopergate petihttp://alaskahockeymomsforobama.com/?p=195tion. We need to know the truth before the election!!!!!!!

Thanks for your efforts. Patriotism is exactly this solitary decision and action; it always has been. I am glad you found your voice and then acted. We need millions more to do so — on all sides.

Great movements are started when solitary patriots meet other like-minded people — so thanks to Mudflats. Get organized here.

Someone with webskills get an Anti-Palin and Other Subjects Rally Time and Place site set up and connect to it here on the side-bar.

Everyone keep checking that site and then get the word out to the rest of the world. There are lots of people who read this Blog. Start to make an activist stand, even in this small but important stay-at-home way — or start a Rally on whatever subject you want.

This is the WORST election choice in the nearly 5 decades that I have participated. Candidates have been steadily going downhill, generally, in that time. Only one of my candidates, chosen initially in the Primary, has ever won the Presidency – Bill Clinton. That’s quite a discouraging record, and for the “leadership” we’ve had from the ones who became President in those nearly50 years, their record of inadequacy speaks for itself; the best choices lost in the Primaries.

I worked on only one campaign – Ronald Reagan for Governor of California. But, I constantly, (even between elections!), dig deeply into the issues, and in that way, I have been participatory and a patriot.

I feel this election has NO choice, but I think the American People must put CAMPAIGN REFORM at the top of the agenda. Whoever wins, make them tackle this first, so then NO special interest can get a word in, at all. Outlaw professional lobbying, and publically-finance all campaigns and mandate a “short” campaign cycle. Stroke of a pen is all that’s needed. They could have reformed themselves at every turn, but America must make Congress DO it this time.

Maybe then the rest of the “work” will be done with the American People’s welfare in mind. That hasn’t happened yet, at all, on ANY of the crises now before us.

Phillips is the first person I have heard who has such a long and practical view of the financial crisis and has knowledge of the candidates and their real level of expertise in finance. He wrote: “Bad Money – Reckless Finance, Failed Politics and the Global Crisis of American Capitalism”. Sounds like a dreary book you’d never read? Don’t think that way, because the next 20 YEARS is on the line, NOW.

Kevin said that Barack Obama told him he was reading his books. He needs to. Kevin has comments about who Barack is getting for advisors. And, he said he despaired of Mc Cain and explained why in the interview. It was the most even-handed assessment of BOTH candidates I have yet seen, and therefore all the more troubling (but necessary to know!).

BTW, thanks to Jo MacD for the quote at 18:29
“Liars always need intimidation to get what they want – truth just needs a voice : ) ” That’s a keeper.

I hope you have fun with my turn of phrase on my Palin Baby name which originally was Nixon Hailfire Palin. I like Nix On Hell’n’Fire Palin instead!

So, hop to it everyone. I think we also need to be prepared if the Philadelphia Federal Court case on Barack Obama’s possible ineligiblity to be President case goes through, too. As I understand it, subpoenas have been sent to Barack Obama, Howard Dean and the head of the Fedreal Elections Commission.

Haven’t heard about the court case? Check out the former Assistant Attorney General of Pennsylvania’s site at:http://obamacrimes.com/
His name is Philip J. Berg and he’s totally serious about the concerns and evidence found.

Best to all — Nix On Hell’n’Fire Palin

20092008

sauerkraut(07:48:16) :

An acquaintance put out on his lawn a sign with Palin’s name circled in red with a slash going thru a week or so ago.

It lasted there for less than 24 hours as some thief took it overnight.

Great work, Doug, and great story, HamletsMill aka Rot Pipeline. I keep going back to that line: They messed with the wrong people. Bush/Rove/MCain/Palin are not “conservatives.” They don’t care how they spend the peoples’ money (quite to the contrary, they look to use it for their own benefit.). They don’t care about the Constitution or the system of checks and balances or the “rule of law.” We could all cite dozens of examples showing that all they care about it getting power, maintaining power, and using power to keep power. They use “conservative” and “liberal” as convenient wedges to keep ordinary people fighting each other while they loot the treasury, fire or imprison their enemies (Americans who disagree with them), and continue the transfer of wealth from the American people to their corporate allies. And themselves.

But then people start saying, “Palin lies.” “McCain lies.” They can’t shut everybody up. The truth is coming out.

20092008

gary(07:50:56) :

Today’s verse.

Her style is naughty librarian, her talk libertarian. Things are not as they seem.
She’d ban some books and belies her looks, plays for the GOP team.
Not a librarian, not libertarian, she’s a censoring barracuda.
She knows Jesus will do as she pleases; shut up with your crap about Buddha!

That was a wonderful story, thank you so much for sharing it with us. Thank you also for standing up for what you believe in. More people should do that, and if you feel inclined to do that again I can only say GO FOR IT!

As I currently reside outside the country such things are beyond me. It really would not make much difference as my neighbors could not vote in this election anyway. Shame really as I get the feeling that the whole world would back Obama over the Republican ticket in a NY minute.

20092008

Tom from PA(07:55:55) :

I am not sure if anyone noticed but in the latest poll, Alaska still has McCain/Palin ahead by 17 points. That, however, is down from 37 in the previous poll. Six weeks left.

20092008

scdem(08:04:24) :

I have noticed something very interesting about signs this year. I live in an area that is solidly Republican. In 2004, at least 1 in every 4 cars on the road had those wretched “W” stickers on them. This year – almost nothing. I almost never see a McCain sticker and I have not seen a single Palin sticker. In fact, I would say that I see more Obama stickers than anything. I know the state will vote Republican – although Obama will get a decent showing. I’m beginning to think however, that there isn’t much real enthusiasm about that ticket down here.

20092008

chunkalove(08:04:29) :

doug!! big ups from NYC!

20092008

sauerkraut(08:06:00) :

Laurie – every time I hear or read a story about some senseless act of violence in the middle east that targets and/or kills civilians, I ask myself: with all the years and experience McCain has in the US Senate, why do these acts continue?

What, exactly, has McCain done as a US Senator to mitigate or halt these types of terrorist actions?

The answer: not a whole hell of a lot, if anything.

And that will not change if he gets into the White House. What is really scarey about that scenario (him getting into the White House) is that Palin is a half heartbeat from his seat. And should he suddenly go and she ascend, what would she do to end these types of acts?

I mean, besides hitting the red button?

20092008

UK lady AKA turning turtle Palinps(08:07:06) :

Just read somebody on another blog describe Palin as a shapeshifter. That sums her up nicely.

scdem – although my buddy lost his home-made anti-palin sign, I am happy to report that my vehicle has sported an Obama bumper sticker on the back window for at least 6 months with no damage to the vehicle.

Cannot say the same for the 3 Obama signs that have been stolen from my front yard. Keepsake seekers, perhaps.

20092008

Sandy Beach(08:12:32) :

Doug: tourists will disappear from Juneau for the season in a few days. If you decide to do it again, post in the Mudflats Forum and you’ll get some company down there. I’d love to join you!

I can confirm what Doug says about State employees being scared to say/do anything against Palin for fear of losing their jobs. There are a couple I know who were happy to receive anti-Bush jokes in their state e-mail accounts but have requested to not be included in any e-mail conversations about the gov for fear of repercussions. There is kind of a climate of suspicion–a fear that powers-that-be might be reading their e-mail!

“Cannot say the same for the 3 Obama signs that have been stolen from my front yard. Keepsake seekers, perhaps

Perhaps those who took them did’t have a car?

Look around you; maybe you’ll see them a block or two over, on someone else’s lawn.

20092008

Val(08:18:48) :

Love the article Doug.

You should be proud of your decision to make a stand. Many a movement began with one person wearing a sign in peaceful protest. You make a difference.

Kudos to you
Greetings from Maryland

20092008

Anonymous(08:19:38) :

Off thread……..but true……..today McCoward attends 50th year graduation at Naval Acadamey………out of 799……..he was 794….good stuff on jnail blog !!!!

20092008

Sheesh aka Puck Mule Palin(08:23:44) :

SCdem…I had mentioned the dearth of McCain/Palin bumper stickers a while back and it hasnt changed any in my neck of the woods since that post a week ago. We, too, had an abundance of vehicles sporting those ‘W’ stickers during the 2004 campaign. I have seen Obama stickers…not as many as I expected but still, in my daily travels, see at least 2 daily. I live in a red state but a purple county. I started wearing my Obama button in hopes of getting people to ask me questions. I’m determined to make a difference wherever I can in the remaining days of this election.

20092008

Erin(08:25:57) :

SittingPretty (01:38:16) :

Re: energy check

I gave mine to a couple of worthy causes because I couldn’t take the thought of it feeling like a bribe. I gave Obama/Biden almost half!

20092008

DCSandy(08:27:59) :

Awesome testimony to the power of one voice! Thank you!!!

20092008

portland oregon native(08:32:09) :

Go!!! Doug Go!!!
You are a brave person to go to the docks and put up with the pop corn guy and the 20% who are so far oblivious to the realities of our precarious situation both politically and economically.
One of my personal favorite arguments to the unaware is the following:
McCain voted against the raising of the minimum wage 19 times in his 26 years in congress.
Another: McCain supported turning Social Security over to Wall Street. All those seniors on the cheap season end cruises to Alaska would be living on the street had that been allowed to happen.

Doug: Thank you – wish I could be there to stand with my grannies for Obama sign.

Hamlets Mill: Fascism and nazism are alive and well. I refer you to you tube videos of the military/police action against the public during the rnc. That is a whole other story.

At any rate – if we do not stand up this time, even if they try to steal the election again, we are done! This is no joking matter.

We need to continue to show strength through numbers and each time someone stands up, like the soldier in Germany and like Doug or like everyone who attends a rally, wears a t-shirt or has a sign in their yard or car bumper – there will be others who follow.

We cannot allow these people to be elected or steal the election!

20092008

margo4it(08:57:56) :

I would like to suggest that this incredible story be sent to every editor of every newspaper in the country. I did my part by sending it to the St. Pete Times and the NYT. This needs to get legs. Don’t know how to get to Keith Olberman, but certainly someone does. Lets get it on the road. I copied and pasted the entire story in my e-mail so it would be easily accessable.

Thanks Doug, you gave this tired Texan a real grin and some hope today. We do get tired of the unholy war we cause here for not goose stepping to the drum beat.
Remember what Obama said –
I will never forget that the only reason I’m standing here today is because somebody, somewhere stood up for me when it was risky. Stood up when it was hard. Stood up when it wasn’t popular. And because that somebody stood up, a few more stood up. And then a few thousand stood up. And then a few million stood up. And standing up, with courage and clear purpose, they somehow managed to change the world.

Barack Obama Jan. 8, 2008

20092008

AnneinWA(09:05:51) :

Doug,

I am so proud of you. THANK YOU for quietly taking a stand for ME. I hope we are all doing the same, in some way, no matter how small. I read your story with tears streaming down my face, cheering you on. It takes courage to “go it alone” and carry a sign that might provoke.

I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him. ~Abraham Lincoln

20092008

AnneinWA(09:09:41) :

I was so thrilled to read Doug’s inspirational story this morning – especially after waking up to the following article:

WASHINGTON (AP) — Deep-seated racial misgivings could cost Barack Obama the White House if the election is close, according to an AP-Yahoo News poll that found one-third of white Democrats harbor negative views toward blacks — many calling them “lazy,” “violent,” responsible for their own troubles.

Great story, Doug. And, yes, do go out and do it again. And again. And again. Until Sarah (“Lady McPalin”) Palin returns home in defeat Nov 5th. And the more you do it, the better you’ll get with the snappy comebacks.

Bravo! It’s so wonderful to see a fellow American exercising his right to peaceful assembly, as well as freedom of speech. It’s also disheartening to hear that those middle-aged people quoted what they’d heard on CNN – obviously taken out of context – as fact and the reason they were voting for McCain. You’d think people would bother to do a little reading about the candidates’ positions before they make up their minds. As if we weren’t already worried enough about McCain’s state of mind in selecting Palin, now the “witch doctor” story! Sigh. Another reason why it’s absolutely critical we work hard to get Obama elected.

20092008

Laura whyisthis(09:12:56) :

Doug,

It is far better to light one candle than to curse the dark. You are a true patriot and I thank you from the core of my being!

Hi to Linda and Jude. I am also a southern mature white woman living in NC and will vote for Obama.

Watching the horror this week is a life lesson for all of us.

The Republican Socialist Party is coming out of the closet as they scramble to rescue their Wall St. buddies and throw billions more debt on our collective backs.

THAT is why Doug a million times over is needed!

20092008

Anne Hennessy(09:13:10) :

Doug,
I was heartened to read this story, and can imagine how you felt all by yourself…standing up for those of us who share your feelings.
I was so inspired by the huge protest we saw on the news….so glad you found your own way to make a difference, and you did….make a difference.
Anne Hennessy
In Sunny Florida

in oklahoma mccain is leading by 30 points which almost makes any stand for obama seem useless. but then again there is nothing like seeing other people’s obama signs and stickers to make me feel like i’m not alone in this crazy state of mine.

20092008

Anonymous(09:17:09) :

This is in reference to SEAlaskanWoman’s comment awhile ago:

“…Daily I find myself wishing to be able to do SOMETHING bold to let the world know the truth as we Alaskans do. But with the economy going down the toilet I really can’t risk losing my job. Can’t piss off the boss lady you know.”

I find it sad that as State of Alaska employees we are subjected to having the difficult choice of standing up for what we believe in or putting food in our table for our family. This shouldn’t be the case. Our personal beliefs and political affiliations should not be controlled by the government. It does bring to light what kind of atmosphere the whole Troopergate situation brought to my fellow state employees. We were supposed to be working for the people of Alaska, serve the people of Alaska’s needs not just one person but the reality is we are working at the whim of the Governor.

It should be that as long as we don’t use the State’s time, what we do on our own personal time should be in our control. The problem is that Palin created this atmosphere of fear for job security that we are afraid to voice our opinions.

I don’t blame any State Employee who choose to be silent because they are afraid to loose their jobs. I am too. I just wish we didn’t have to make the choice at all.

Here is an interesting link to what happened to another Sarah Palin employee that was fired for what is mostly personal reasons. It didn’t get as much attention as the Troopergate but it should still be noticed in my opnion.

BTW, Deborah Richter and John Bitney got married a few weeks ago. She is still working, for now (I had to put this in here because her position also serves at the whim of the Governor), as the Director of AK PFD.

20092008

Michelle(09:17:45) :

BRAVO!!! Your actions are those of a courageous and concerned citzen and serve as an inspiration to the rest of us…

Godspeed!!

20092008

maryjblog(09:21:12) :

Keep the faith, Doug; we in the lower 48 salute you!!!!!!!

(my P-baby name is Cuppa Invader)

20092008

LizaJane(09:22:19) :

Thank you Doug.

All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.
Thomas Jefferson

20092008

Juneauite(09:26:18) :

Another firing for personal reasons:

This didn’t get as much national attention like Troopergate but I think it is worth noting.

I heard about this situation from a friend because we knew the people involved (Debbie) and we are aware of the actual reason Bitney got fired. This happened last year.

I don’t blame other AK State Employees out there that are afraid to speak up for fear of job security. I just wish that we didn’t have to make the choice of voicing our opinions or putting food in our table for our family. After all, we are living in democracy…

BTW, Deborah Richter (now Deborah Bitney) is still working as the director of AK PFD. I was actually surprised she wasn’t included when the axe fell on John.

You are a hero, I hope more people read this and follow suit. Dont believe everything you hear. Im 71 years old, white female and live in Texas, AND have never voted for any Bush. My vote this year will be for Obama. Im not the only one, The old ladies who berated you are a disgrace to their age, only proving that with age, wisdom not always follows.

20092008

AnneinWA(09:32:01) :

Anonymous (09:17:09) :
This is in reference to SEAlaskanWoman’s comment awhile ago:

“…Daily I find myself wishing to be able to do SOMETHING bold to let the world know the truth as we Alaskans do. But with the economy going down the toilet I really can’t risk losing my job. Can’t piss off the boss lady you know.”

I find it sad that as State of Alaska employees we are subjected to having the difficult choice of standing up for what we believe in or putting food in our table for our family.

Anonymous,
I don’t think this is happening exclusively in Alaska. As I went on my trek to talk to neighbors last weekend, one woman, who works for the FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, said she is constantly bombarded with e-mails reminding her that, as a gov’t employee, she cannot take a partisan stand. We talked a bit about the First Amendment, her right to support the candidate of her choice when “off the job”, but she clearly feels her job is threatened.

I asked if she would print copies of her messages and let me read them (possibly try to have them published if, indeed, employees are being threatened). She said she would…but I don’t think she will. She is afraid. Is this happening to others? If so, let’s get the word out!

20092008

Juneauite(09:32:16) :

Doug, your courage to for what you believe in is commendable!
If you decide to run for office, You have my vote!

20092008

Cora from Vegas(09:35:32) :

Too bad they did not announce this in June. I could have sat with you on the docks. My Holland America ship did not leave until 10:00 pm. I think there were 5 ships in port that day…..over 10,000 extra people in Juneau that day.

20092008

Bec in Illinois(09:35:54) :

Doug — it brings tears of joy and pride just to read your story. You’ve inspired many. When I take my long-anticipated Alaskan cruise next year, I sure hope Palin is back in Alaska, finishing off her first and only term as governor.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Deep-seated racial misgivings could cost Barack Obama the White House if the election is close, according to an AP-Yahoo News poll that found one-third of white Democrats harbor negative views toward blacks — many calling them “lazy,” “violent,” responsible for their own troubles.

The poll, conducted with Stanford University, suggests that the percentage of voters who may turn away from Obama because of his race could easily be larger than the final difference between the candidates in 2004 — about two and one-half percentage points.

**This time I am leaving off the http:// off the link – you’ll probably have to add it
news.yahoo.com/page/election-2008-political-pulse-obama-race;_ylt=AsZnY6Kb_OF1OcWlrwhdYvMazJV4

20092008

Georgia Native(09:51:22) :

Here is one Southern USA gal who supports any Anti-Palin protest and truth-telling that ya’ll can muster. Thumbs up to you.

20092008

Suzanne(09:52:13) :

Doug! You rock! We all need to be doing these types of things. I just moved to Georgia (the south!!) and I’m not so popular but I speak up and I speak out and I am informed AND that is power. The people who support her around her don’t know – haven’t bothered to dig deeper about her.

Thank God for people like you!

Obama is going to win. I can feel it!

20092008

Derek(09:53:39) :

Doug,

FanTAStic!!!!!! You’ve truly got brass ones.

How many times have I gotten pissed off about something and thought, “What if I …?” – you just DID IT.
God, I wanna come home and do some rabble-rousing of my own … but I also wanna fiish my contract and collect my severance so I NEVER have to come back to Korea again … oh well, my t-shirt and absentee ballot are on the way.

“Doug’s-My-Hero.”

20092008

Elaine543(09:53:53) :

Doug, Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking your stand. I love your story. I hope that you will inspire others to take a stand against Palin. We should all doing what we can to express our opinions, whether it is courageously publically protesting solo with a big sign, attending rallies with thousands of others, writing letters to our local newspapers, posting on websites such as http://womenagainstsarahpalin.blogspot.com/ or quiet conversations with people who currently support Palin but are troubled by aspects of her story and might be persuaded to vote for Obama. If each of us is able to change one person’s mind, that could make the difference because every vote counts.

20092008

MNGma(09:59:47) :

Way to go, you are my hero.

20092008

Bec in Illinois(10:05:14) :

FYI Annie — you don’t have to code links here – WordPress auto-links it if you have the http:// with it. (I had to find that out, too, after a bit of messing with it)

ANONYMOUS (00:51:54) I agree.. every where Mac N P speak they should do what this courageous person did. Good thing I wasn’t there, I probably would have ripped that “Kettle Korn” guy a new one he’d never forget.

I do know IF she dare comes to Portland, Oregon, she will get a rude awakening as would McCain. I doubt they will make their stop here… this area is NOT in touch with the out of touch Republican ticket.

[…] I have Mudflats as one of my blogs that you should visit often, but this particular post is REALLY important. One man chose to stand up and show Americans and even the World that not all Alaskans support […]

20092008

joan(10:13:22) :

Wonderful story, and a brave thing indeed considering how viscious the ignorant in this country can be.

Greetings from Vermont! I’m not in a position to be knocking on N.H. doors (have to stay objective) but our cousins to the south have made the Granite State a priority. They’ll be in Keene tomorrow and would no doubt love to hear some encouragement.

Thanks Mudflats – you’ve become my Alaska obsession!

20092008

Bec in Illinois(10:15:42) :

Oops – for Babs lovers – sorry I screwed up in my zeal – its Barbra

20092008

buy'embooks1956(10:17:41) :

Great Going Doug!! I went to Alaska this last summer, and was a tourist. You have to remember that most of the people who can afford to travel to Alaska, (from outside), have goodpaying jobs, and probably are Republicans anyway. (I saw a bunch of them around the entrance to Denali Natl. Park.) Thus the rancor toward Jimmy Carter etc. I on the other hand was there because the trip was a gift from some family members. Otherwise I would’ve had a ‘stay cation’ this summer.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Deep-seated racial misgivings could cost Barack Obama the White House if the election is close, according to an AP-Yahoo News poll that found one-third of white Democrats harbor negative views toward blacks — many calling them “lazy,” “violent,” responsible for their own troubles.

***********************

What I have found very interesting about this is why is it being reported on now? wHY? Obama is up in the polls. The election is swinging his way. The economy is in the tank. And the media wants to talk about a race issue that we all are aware. Think about IT everyone this is a joke and it’s meant to put doubts in your minds especially the undecideds. This is pure strategy on the part of the media backed Mccain to stir up racial tones. Sorry, don’t buy into and don’t spread the nonsense. I have faith that most people are just sick and tired of what is going on in our country to elect GEORGE BUSH BACK INTO THE WHITE HOUSE!!!

20092008

Rabbler(10:19:25) :

McCrotchety confuses National Guard and Army. Maybe he needs more nap time?

Bec in Illinois (10:05:14) :
FYI Annie — you don’t have to code links here – WordPress auto-links it if you have the http:// with it. (I had to find that out, too, after a bit of messing with it)

Thanks Bec,
I have had no trouble auto posting links here before…until this morning. So, I thought I would try another way. I love it that it seems we are always looking out for each other, fellow Mudpuppies!

20092008

Nauyaq(10:22:14) :

So evidently wanting health care for all people is a bad thing? It is beyond chilling to hear there are people in this country who think health care is something that people shouldn’t be allowed to have.

20092008

Sharon/California(10:25:07) :

Kudos Doug. You may have thought you were alone but you certainly had all of us there with you in spirit.

Re: Linda in Georgia. You go girl! Add to the list of 60-something white women for Obama: ME, my sister in WA, and my 91 year old mother in WA. They have sorely underestimated us and our ability to see through the lies.

20092008

Palin recall??(10:31:00) :

Today in the Anchorage Daily News (www.adn.com) the editor writes a blistering account of how Palin has ‘abdicated’ her role as Gov and handed over the reins to McCain operatives. The word ‘recall’ is used — and I believe the idea will get some legs. Alaskans are pissed, Yup Yup!

20092008

habitual(10:32:49) :

Well done Doug!

Thank you for standing up, for me – for us! *throws fist in the air*

I don’t think I could do this, because if the kettle corn guy said that to me, my temper would flair and I would most likely be brought to physical violence. You’ve set an amazing example – I would need someone like proud2busa with me to keep me calm and give me talking points. Maybe I should do my homework ahead of time, have my rebuttals ready, do deep breathing and get on up to NH!?

Bravo!!!!

20092008

nonni_g(10:33:39) :

I am, and have been, praying for one brave soul to step forward and tell the truth about Troopergate. It is, as one previous blogger noted, a difficult decision between speaking the truth and putting food on the table, I do not envy anyone in that situation; but I hold out hope for just one person, who like Doug, dares to be brave. Good luck Alaskans, and to us if McComics/PitBull get elected.

Cynthia, TX (10:18:49) :
What I have found very interesting about this is why is it being reported on now? wHY? Obama is up in the polls. The election is swinging his way. The economy is in the tank. And the media wants to talk about a race issue that we all are aware. Think about IT everyone this is a joke and it’s meant to put doubts in your minds especially the undecideds. This is pure strategy on the part of the media backed Mccain to stir up racial tones. Sorry, don’t buy into and don’t spread the nonsense. I have faith that most people are just sick and tired of what is going on in our country to elect GEORGE BUSH BACK INTO THE WHITE HOUSE!!!

Cynthia,
I believe the article to which you refer may have as much to do with the incessant polling and guessing that’s going on right now. However, I also want to be informed about what is being touted by the MSM. I don’t feel like sharing this with you folks (like-minded people for the most part) is spreading nonsense.

The great thing about Mudflats is that we can express our opinions, and share what we think might be of value to others, in our quest to elect Barack Obama.

20092008

Cynthia, TX(10:36:51) :

Palin recall?? (10:31:00) :

Today in the Anchorage Daily News (www.adn.com) the editor writes a blistering account of how Palin has ‘abdicated’ her role as Gov and handed over the reins to McCain operatives. The word ‘recall’ is used — and I believe the idea will get some legs. Alaskans are pissed, Yup Yup!
******************************

I have said this a number of times on this blog…there is more to this story than just firing Monegan. I believe there is something that could derail the Mccain campaign. I think the take over had to happen in order to hide it.

20092008

Normandie aka Knife Pile Palin(10:39:33) :

Two cruises to Alaska here (raises hand)…how can anyone honestly get a feel for Alaska or the political scene from the short excursions on land from a cruise ship? Anyway, LOVED the article! It was so well written and had me laughing! I’d love to see more anti-Palin protests. Not just in Juneau.

White female for Obama

20092008

portland oregon native(10:41:27) :

@Cynthia, TX
I agree with you! This has got to be a big deal for them to make such a big deal about it all. Or…they are just really really stupid; maybe even dumber that we give them credit for being.

Jude,
Thanks for the article. It was rather disturbing. I thought it was people like James Dobson that had a hand in picking Palin, but Billy Graham too? They actually think that she is God’s chosen and the Democrats are Satan’s tools?!

This is really getting DEEP. It’s time to put my boots on and find a couple of shovels.

20092008

Cynthia, TX(10:46:56) :

AnneinWA (10:34:49)

Sorry, AnneinWA I didn’t say that the correct way. Hope I did not offend you in any way on that comment.

I just find it interesting the media would choose to write about racial political articles at such a critical time in our country right now.

20092008

Pat(10:47:24) :

Uh oh……………….I just talked to 2 young women in downeast MAine..they’re smart enough to see palin is not the nurturing Mother that they are…………….
they’re believing the sincerity of McCain ( ???) because they WORK & have kids…….( at least the older one does) and haven’t been present to witness his fumbling this week.Young women with kids & husbands……..don’t USUALLY get to watch the news at 6 PM. I go through withdrawal when visiting the Grandkids in upstate NY. My Daughter hears her news on the several alternative radio staions up there ( near Woodstock)
The reaspoon they were unsure of Obama is “He’s not taking care of his Brother in Kenya who lives on $20.00 a day.” Gotta e-mail the campaign on that one. I told them that qwwas just Republican talking point repeated over & over…….
At least they listened to what I had to say and respected it. I told them that I had just witnessed my Mother descend into senile dementia this spring, her husband several years ago………..and I can see it happening to maccain.
I brought up what a loving family the Obamas were, and they agreed & really appreciated that.
The younger of the 2 is just 18, her first vote and she is really trying to be informed.
Of all the lies and outrageous things about this campaign, who would have thought the African Brother would be a deterent?
I tried to do the Forum, couldn’t figure out how to type in my info. Nothing I clicked on gave me a comment box. I wanted to be the first Mainer to post.

20092008

Cynthia, TX(10:49:02) :

I really hate saying this but when you listen to Palin in those town hall meetings she is just clueless.

20092008

Linda(10:52:02) :

Give some assistance on this one- I think this so called Obama brother is a son his father had with a different mother than him and Obama never even knew??? You might tell the older folks you meet from now on that Mr. McSame wanted to privitize social security- thus putting it in the stock market, not leaving it where it is right now and most all know where that has wound up this week. Really scary….

20092008

Bluedog aka Bash Budweiser Palin Jr.(10:52:32) :

Rock on, brother, from a fellow Juneauite exiled to Anchorage.

Something else that makes me feel hopeful: Last night we went to the Aasif Mandvi event at the university (he’s one of Jon Stewart’s correspondents). Mandvi was being careful (or polite) about making Sarah Palin jokes. In the Q&A session, an older guy asked, “Are you afraid to make jokes about Sarah Palin?” Mandvi said, “I’m afraid of Sarah Palin!”

Then Mandvi asked the crowd of several hundred (mostly college students) something like, “But you’re all for Sarah Palin, right?” And there was a huge, nearly unanimous “No!!!!” from the audience.

I’m convinced more than ever now that one of the keys to Obama’s win is getting those young people to the polls to actually vote.

20092008

AnneinWA(10:53:00) :

@Cynthia, TX (10:46:56) :

Oh…no offense taken. I am simply trying to pay close attention to what’s reported so I am prepared when I go out on my own campaign “stumps!”

20092008

Cynthia, TX(10:53:50) :

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has just announced that no more people will be allowed into the Barack Obama Rally at Metropolitan Park.

Thanks for the links to the WSJ story about the Bitney firing. I had not heard about it. Yikes. That is truly egregious.

Before the Palin VP nomination, I had not been paying much attention and did not realize that most of her appointees were old buddies from Wasilla High. If she were president, these same hacks would likely be in charge of all aspects of our federal govt. Now that’s a scary prospect!

20092008

SMR(10:56:12) :

@Pat in Maine: There is a detailed explanation re: how to post in the forum. I had to look at that to figure it out, as I am not a big forum/chat person.

Someone here mentioned the ADN (Anchorage Daily News) article about palin abdicating her role as Gov to the mccain thugs, but of even more concern is the editorial from a Kenai professor (one of the most Republican-dense areas in the state — there’s a brave man too) about the Billy Graham connection to Palin. That is a very scary thing!!!!!!!!!! It’s unlikely that the scope of the troopergate investigation will go that far, but it is certainly something that needs widespread investigation & reporting by MSM. Jump on it jump on it!!!!!

20092008

AnneinWA(10:57:22) :

Bluedog aka Bash Budweiser Palin Jr. (10:52:32) :

Woo! Hoo! Thanks for sharing your account of last night’s event.

I AM AFRAID OF SARAH PALIN TOO!

20092008

UK lady AKA turning turtle Palinps(11:00:57) :

Bec in Ill 10.14 That was sooo funny.

Why does anybody think bringing racism into the mix now will make any difference? Do they think that there is anybody who hasn’t noticed O’s colour yet? They are still voting for him by the millions.

Also,lets spare a little sympathy for probably the most conflicted pair of repugs in the USA, Peggy Noonan and Mike Murphy. They are either right (it’s over) or they are out or work.

20092008

UK lady AKA turning turtle Palinps(11:01:56) :

Wrote that wrong but you know what I meant.

20092008

White Agate(11:03:17) :

AKM: Maybe this was covered before, but what about Andrew Sullivan’s comment today about Troopergate:

From Andrew Sullivan’s blog at The Atlantic, ‘The Daily Dish’

Why Palin Fired Monegan
20 Sep 2008 12:20 pm
To hire Chuck Kopp as police chief – because national Christianist forces were looking for a commitment before they helped launch her national career:
Kenai City Police Chief Chuck Kopp was a rising star in Alaska’s Christian conservative movement. He was a frequent speaker at local religious and patriotic gatherings. He was school board president of Cook Inlet Academy, the fundamentalist Christian high school in Soldotna his missionary-educator father founded. Kopp also was on the board of Port Alsworth’s Tanailan Bible Camp, also founded by his father.
Through Samaritan’s Place, Franklin Graham has been the chief benefactor of the Tanailan Bible Camp building and rebuilding a church and meeting hall and guest cabins. The evangelical scion of Alaska, Rev. Jerry Prevo of the Anchorage Baptist Temple, is on Samaritan Purse’s Board of Directors, so there’s a clear connection between Graham, Prevo and Kopp.
Only problem: Kopp was a known sexual harasser when Palin appointed him (and she knew it). But religious fanaticism and sexual acting out are not exactly strangers to one another, are they?
Permalink :: TrackBacks

Thoughts? I hadn’t seen this content before, but I haven’t read all of your posts in detail, either. Interested in his source.

20092008

MJC(11:04:05) :

Bluedog,
I agree wholeheartedly! The young first time voters will be the deciding factor. I have two first time voters here (in my household) in Georgia, and they WILL be voting for Obama, even though we are not Democrats!

Congrats! This article is posted on The Huffington Post. And Obama was up in the Gallup Polls: Obama 50% —- McCain 44%

You go AKMUCKRACKER— I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!

YOU ARE MY HERO!

20092008

goombagirl(11:07:15) :

You’re doing the Lord’s work, Doug. Keep it up!

20092008

AnneinWA(11:08:34) :

MJC (11:04:05) :
Bluedog,
I agree wholeheartedly! The young first time voters will be the deciding factor. I have two first time voters here (in my household) in Georgia, and they WILL be voting for Obama, even though we are not Democrats!

MJC – I’d like to think that many of us “aging hippies” will also help swing this election to OBAMA!🙂

Yes We WILL!

20092008

Tundra654 aka Axe Diesel Palin(11:08:49) :

Great story! Thank you, Doug, for showing visitors to our state that not all Alaskans are unquestioning supporters of our governor and her new friends. I flew from Anchorage to Kenai last week, and sat behind several oil industry workers who appeared to be returning home from their jobs on the north slope. A few rows ahead of me, one individual spent much of the flight explaining to his seatmate in a loud voice about why “Osama” won’t get elected. It appeared that no one was going to speak up, but suddenly one of the guys in the row between us turned to his buddy and said, “We probably shouldn’t let the drunk guy be our spokesperson!” and they both laughed. The rest of the flight was much quieter!

One final thought… Is it just me, or are we living in some bizarre “Opposite World” where Sarah Palin is traveling around the rest of the country talking about all the wonderful reform that will take place with a “Palin and McCain” administration, while the McCain campaign is picking up valuable executive experience by running the State of Alaska? Every word on Troopergate is coming from a McCain campaign spokesperson!!!!

20092008

Cynthia, TX(11:09:30) :

White Agate (11:03:17) :

No, I have not heard anything about this.

I continue to say there is more to this than just firing Monegan.

20092008

MJC(11:13:05) :

Jeri a.k.a. Bullpen Cola Palin ,
Which story is reported on HuffPo?

20092008

MinNJ(11:13:42) :

Truly inspiring, Doug. Thank for your courage on behalf of all of us! Big cheer from New Jersey!

20092008

justme(11:14:41) :

Thank you for doing this, and sharing it with the rest of the world, because of people like you I still have a little hope

Thanks a lot

Take care up there

Obama/Biden 08

20092008

John Sampson(11:15:27) :

Hi, great post. I applaud you on your convictions. I am a Canadian from the Eastcoast(Nova Scotia) who has been watching this election closely. Anyone looking and doing research on this woman can see she is a danger to the American public. She has lied over and over again for political gain. I think Sarah Palin has ulterior motives and getting into the White House would be the thing that she would want to push her religious beliefs on others. This woman is by no means right in the head. She is power hungry and so is her First Dood, as she calls him. God Bless and take care of the USA. You don’t need a religious fanatic in the Oval Office.

20092008

sheesh(11:18:44) :

Bluedog,

And that’s exactly why I’m focusing my own efforts in my large college town on the University. I’m signed up to work on two voter reg drives in the coming weeks and then plan to do what I can to make sure those newly registered college voters get out there and vote. These are the people the pollsters arent catching and they’re our insurance for a bright future without McCain/Palin.

20092008

sandybeach in WA(11:19:10) :

Peggno in SoCal…sorry, every time I see your name, I read “Preggo”😛

20092008

mvngfwd aka WMD Cessna(11:20:53) :

Bravo Doug…you are my hero! This made me laugh and smile. It also fortified me as I head off to see my In-laws who are blindly for McCain. They are not the type who listen to real information so this should be fun. I made my husband download Mudflats on my IPhone so I can read while they spew rhetoric and lies. Pray for me!;)

Doug, great job! BTW, I’m honestly NOT surprised that overall the tourists supported you. Prior to losing my job in April, we had planned on taking a cruise to Alsaka in July—because for those of us who can drive to one of the ports (in our case Seattle from Portland), it’s a vacation that offers a signifcant bang for the buck.

Anyway, my point is, a LOT of the Alaska cruise ship travelers are from the Bay area, Portland or Seattle—all very blue counties in blue states (cause no matter what, we WILL ultimately go Democrat come November)—as well as BC. And we’re thrilled that there are brave Alaskans like yourself.

20092008

AnneinWA(11:22:10) :

John Sampson (11:15:27) :
…This woman is by no means right in the head. She is power hungry and so is her First Dood, as she calls him. God Bless and take care of the USA. You don’t need a religious fanatic in the Oval Office.

Thanks, John Sampson, for your KIND way of saying what so many of us, in the USA, are thinking in MUCH more explicit terms! Also, thanks for your blessings…we need all we can get!

20092008

Linda(11:25:44) :

Great – go to Youtube and play the “Thank John McCain” video.

20092008

Soldotna Sue(11:27:55) :

Yah, Doug! What a wonderful inspiring story! You, are one of the very good guys!
You are a wonderful writer! I enjoyed all of the details of your expierience.

I use to live in Juneau and know that there are many Progressives that live in the downtown area. If you want some friends to guard you ass, I’m sure you could find them easily.

Maybe it’s a more effective protest when it’s a single protester. I’m not sure.

20092008

Copper Catfish Palin(11:28:26) :

*standing up, clapping wildly*

If more people like you did more things like that in more states than not, then perhaps people would decide to THINK with their heads.

20092008

AnneinWA(11:28:36) :

mvngfwd aka WMD Cessna (11:20:53) :
Bravo Doug…you are my hero! This made me laugh and smile. It also fortified me as I head off to see my In-laws who are blindly for McCain.

mvngfwd, You are a brave woman. I have found myself avoiding my closed-minded relatives. It seems like they suck the life out of me (okay…I know I would have to ALLOW them to do that!). However, their minds are MADE UP…facts be damned…so I am spending my time (when not on Mudflats) talking to those who MIGHT be swayed. Kudos to you. Send us messages on your iPhone and we will send words of encouragement!

A big thumbs up and tip of the hat to Doug. You’re an inspiration. I’m tempting to do something similar in my historically very red town.

My area was very pro-Bush in ’04 — lots of bumper stickers. I’ve noticed them disappearing lately. Have yet to see the first McCain one. It’s puzzling as there are a lot of people around who have similar views to Palin’s. I saw someone in the grocery store last weekend wearing an Obama shirt and gave him a thumbs up.

My Obama bumper sticker and my car are unscathed, but my NM son reports that his yard sign was stolen and that a neighbor’s McCain signs are now pointed at their yard rather than at the street. My son’s place backs up to a major street, so he’s ordered a LARGE Obama banner to hang from his patio cover where it will likely get better exposure than in his front yard. Anyone trying to bag it will have to deal with his pit bull…

20092008

HamletsMill aka Rot Pipeline Palin(11:29:42) :

White Agate (11:03:17) :

AKM: Maybe this was covered before, but what about Andrew Sullivan’s comment today about Troopergate:

From Andrew Sullivan’s blog at The Atlantic, ‘The Daily Dish’

Why Palin Fired Monegan
20 Sep 2008 12:20 pm
———————————-
I think this is all now starting to get to the root of the matter that there are other forces involved. Hummm.

When I read the “Port Alsworth’s Tanailan Bible Camp” I had to do a double take. Maybe my eyes are blurry from reading so many fine posts here on the Mudflats since I found this place on P-Day+1.

I thought it said “Port Alsworth’s Taliban Bible Camp”.

20092008

Cynthia, TX(11:29:57) :

Mudflatters,

Do you remember when John Mccain said this? But, his running mat was picked by the agents of intolerence.

Can someone please make a video with these quotes in them please.

****************
Mr. McCain singled out for criticism two of the Christian right’s best-known leaders, Pat Robertson, the founder of the Christian Coalition, and the Rev. Jerry Falwell, the founder of the Moral Majority. He compared Mr. Robertson to ”union bosses who have subordinated the interests of working families to their own ambitions,” and he accused both men of trying to distort his opposition to abortion and ”smear the reputations of my supporters.”

”The politics of division and slander are not our values,” Mr. McCain said in a somber address to some 4,000 people who packed a high school gymnasium here only a few miles from the headquarters of the Christian Coalition. ”They are corrupting influences on religion and politics, and those who practice them in the name of religion or in the name of the Republican Party or in the name of America shame our faith, our party and our country.” [Excerpts, Page A16.]

I don’t know if you Alaskans can do it, but boy would I be hooting and howling if your state turned blue come election day….. what a slap in the face to your Gov, she would have to come back home with her tail between her legs…. which I know would excite many of you Alaskan mudflatters… just someone putting a smile on my face thinking about that possibilty.

20092008

rdy2wlk(11:32:45) :

Don’t think all southerners like McCain and certainly not Palin. I couldn’t wait to tell my husband yesterday that “she lied again”. Thanks for taking a stand.

Rdy2wlk
Tennessee

20092008

AnneinWA(11:41:54) :

Check out http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/ today. I realize the polls are swinging wildly right now, but I like the way this looks today…so I’ll take satisfaction where I can find it!

20092008

Ky Fork Decoy Palin(11:42:55) :

Thank you, Doug! This is the most inspiring story I’ve heard, yet. You are a very brave man to face the crowd alone. My hope is that by reading your story, more will gain the courage to speak out, and take a stand!

Doug, thank you for taking a very difficult stand. I moved out of Idaho two years ago precisely because of the kind of behavior you describe and I know how hard it was when it wasn’t even an Idahoan politican on a big ticket (hey, they could’ve picked Larry Craig), so I can only imagine how tense this must have been for you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Protests like this one have brought our country through many historical mistakes.

To those up in Portland, Oregon has gone from light blue to solid blue but Washington is still light blue. Have you considered doing some canvassing across the state line? I’m trying to figure out how I can fit in and afford a two and a half hour drive sometime soon.

20092008

Ky Fork Decoy Palin(11:44:56) :

deb in oregon (11:31:53)
Alaska was looking pretty blue before Palin entered the race! I’ve never seen it go blue, before, and am hoping people wise up and vote democratic, this year! How exciting would that be?

20092008

Debra(11:45:04) :

An inspiring story for us all. “One” man can make a difference. He was willing to put himself out there for something he believes in. Two Thumbs up.

20092008

AnneinWA(11:51:36) :

Check out fivethirtyeight.com – I realize the polls are swinging wildly, but it looks good TODAY.

There is also an interesting article posted there, a subject discussed earlier in t his thread.

On Race-Based Voting

The commentariat’s topic du jour is this AP story which cites a study conducted in conjunction with Yahoo!, Knowledge Networks and Stanford University and which reports that “Statistical models derived from the poll suggest that Obama’s support would be as much as 6 percentage points higher if there were no white racial prejudice.” Here are some thoughts I have on the matter:

20092008

EnfantTerrible(11:53:53) :

What a great story, and what an enlightening experience for all involved! I’ve done picketing myself for various causes – some popular and some not so popular. The key ingredients to a successful picket are: a good attitude, a clear, unambiguous message, a good attitude, a willingness to accept comments from passersby (agreeable or not), and a good attitude. Be sure not to block traffic or impede pedestrians.

Did I mention that a good attitude is a key ingredient to a successful picket?

One more thing – a frequent outcome of picketing is some darn interesting street theater. Expect surprises. And you will be especially surprised at the good will you will receive.

20092008

John Sampson(11:54:15) :

To AnneinWA , Your quite welcome. The USA is our neighbor and I have many friends who live all over your great land. They are all scared to death that these people may get into office. They love their country as I do my own and I understand what they are feeling. These people have no desire to help the average American, only themselves and their rich friends. Sarah Palin scares them more than a war with Russia, and that says a lot. I hope and pray that God guides all Americans on election days to do what is right for all Americans and that they vote to take their country back for their own. Sometimes we have our differences, rivalrys in sports and that is a good thing.Americans are my brothers and sisters and I will always consider them so. My prayers are with all of you in these trying times. God Bless you all.

20092008

Anonymous(12:02:07) :

Well done Doug , you are a motivating force. I think I will get out the sidewalk chalk and get creative.

…funny story about those W 2004 stickers, my daughter and a few of her friends carried black sharpies with them, and whenever they could added AR after the W and then + after the 2004. I dont know if that was vandalism or not, but it made me proud.

Truth never damages a cause that is just -Mahatma Gandhi

20092008

Jeri a.k.a. Bullpen Cola Palin(12:02:26) :

MJC,

THE STORY WE ARE ON RIGHT NOW : PALIN LIES! THE LONE PROTESTER

20092008

AnneinWA(12:03:40) :

John Sampson (11:54:15) :
The USA is our neighbor and I have many friends who live all over your great land. They are all scared to death that these people may get into office. They love their country as I do my own and I understand what they are feeling. These people have no desire to help the average American, only themselves and their rich friends.

John Sampson,
Your sincere sentiments bring tears to my eyes. I too am scared for my great country…so, I must get away from this computer and get to work for Obama! Mudflats is simply such a reassuring place for me. I can talk with like-minded people who are looking for ways to take our government back!

Sarah Palin scares them more than a war with Russia, and that says a lot.
John, In what country do you live?

20092008

AnneinWA(12:16:33) :

Jeri a.k.a. Bullpen Cola Palin (12:02:26) :
MJC,
THE STORY WE ARE ON RIGHT NOW : PALIN LIES! THE LONE PROTESTER

Jeri,
It might help to let others know the story is on the HOME page – NOT POLITICS.
Let’s all support AKM, by leaving comments at Huffington.

To AnneinWA, I’m a Canadian. I live in Nova Scotia, which is on the east coast of the country. My home is in Halifax, which is its capital and there are many of your countrymen who visit here year round. They love the scenic views of our coastlines. We have a very historic heritage that dates back 100’s of years with scenic towns and villages all over our province. People in our neck of the woods open their doors to all people, strangers included who need a hand or who are just visiting. We are celebrating our 250 years of democracy next month. I have visited your country many times over the years and I have found that Americans and Canadians share much in common. I love the beauty of your country and the amazing similarities between our two peoples. We have been neighbors for hundreds of years and who share the longest border in the world and I thank God every day for a country like America who have stood with and beside us in many turmoils. Like I said, we are brothers and sisters and we share your profound apprehension in these trying times.I hope every American votes with profound thoughst to their countrymen and their future.I must also say goodbye for now, but I will be on here later. I love this site and can express my true thoughts about this situation.Take care and God Bless America

20092008

Intrigued(12:38:24) :

Laura — She remained a chef, just not for the Executive branch (governor). She was moved to the legislature.

So you’re right — no money was saved. But she was still cooking; she didn’t transfer to some secretarial position.

20092008

AnneinWA(12:42:58) :

John Sampson (12:36:01) :

JOHN,

And may God Bless our Canadian brothers and sisters…and the rest of the world!

20092008

pamela(12:53:45) :

Doug, Thank you. A simple but effective example of free speech in action – something more of us should emulate.

20092008

U D(13:10:09) :

Gutsy and entertaining, LOVE it! 😀

Job well done Doug! Thank you

20092008

Carlyle(13:46:02) :

Great job Doug! Enjoyed reading your story. You are an inspiration to all!

Wonderful slice of life! It’s funny, I was thinking earlier if I was to show up at a McCain-Palin rally around here (Wisconsin) the sign I would have made would be “Palin Lies”. And here you go ahead and execute! Really great.

20092008

Leona(14:23:02) :

Arcturus, I am in Wisconsin, too – I’d gladly hold up a sign with you if/when The Liar(s) come to Wisconsin.

Oops – the story was about a man. ( All this girl power has me confused) 🙂

20092008

Let'sGetReal(15:07:25) :

Doug…I must say, you definitely have a pair! Wonderful job!

Obama/Biden 2008-2012

20092008

deuce2AKA: Axe Diesel(15:32:16) :

Way to go Doug. From the BLUE COLLAR COMEDY TEAM,
HERE’S YOUR SIGN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

20092008

Meredith(15:34:46) :

Doug, you are an inspiration! You have given me hope today!!

20092008

John Mc(16:21:47) :

I read your Palin Lies story aloud to my family. We loved it! I’ve bookmarked the site to keep coming back. KEEP IT UP!

20092008

winstonsmithcloned(16:22:06) :

you go dude!

that was truly inspirational.

with a shift of perspective, it makes you ‘see’ out of the eyes of Sara Palin and how with a mind that is ‘bible believn’ ‘ you see how one might get lost in the whole ‘doin’ the work of the lord’ spin that gets ripped every week and every day in the brainwashing barns they call churches.

don’t let it go to your head man.

20092008

concernedcanadian(16:42:06) :

Great stuff Doug! Good on you, keep it up!

20092008

kate aka chin duststrap(17:29:46) :

Apropros of signs, today I was driving on I 95 in Philly and I saw a HUGE sign on a roof: McCain=Bush, Palin=Santorum.

For those of you not familiar with him, Rick Santorum was a REP. senator from PA who was on the rise. He was finally ousted 2 years ago and replaced by the DEM Bob Casey Jr.

Santorum is ultra-right wing, wanted to teach intelligent design, made nasty comments about homosexuals,is anti-abortion and interfered in the Terry Schiavo case. He also apparently billed the State of PA for tuition for his kids who were attending school in VA.

I thought it was a great comparison.

20092008

Waxman(17:33:04) :

Road to Nowhere….

Seems to me like we need an article on the “Road to Nowhere”. From what I can see this was nothing but taking Federal money just to spend it – with no apparent benefit to anyone – except that it provided some jobs. Not that infrastructure projects to provide jobs are all bad – especially in a tough economy, but it seems to me that this is more decoration or superstructure rather than infrastructure. What do the locals say about this? Is this the next issue that Fiscally Conservative Reformer Sarah will have to explain…. Any talk up north on this?

20092008

sauerkraut(17:45:54) :

For some reason, I think the tide turned when SNL writers visited Mudflats and started gathering material for Tine Fey.

The chef – yes, apparently transferred so contrary to Palin’s initial suggestion, no money was saved. Who cooks for the kids? Palin’s mom and Ronald McDonald and the Burger King. Wendy in a pinch.

Richter and Bitney – did I see a mudflats entry on this a couple of weeks ago? Something about an affair (ssshhhhh…). Interesting the Palin is accused of having an affair with someone named Richter in the Nat’l Enquirer. There was also something about Palin having a business relationship with D. Richter and perhaps that is why only Bitney lost his position.

Witch hunting – is it true that you need a Nimbus 2010 if you intend to engage in this sport? What are Harry Pottah’s thoughts on this? Perhaps Malfoy is the dragon in Palin’s cape?

A few days ago I asked about the McCain campaign taking over the functions and responsibilities of the state government of Alaska. Is that legal? It sure looks like his campaign is standing in stead for the governor herself, almost like a shadow government and/or psuedo-governor. Is that legal in this country? Perhaps someone could as Attorney Mitchell to include that in his arguments for full access to unredacted copies of Palin’s emails. Anyone know?

This is a really cute story. I bet he looks like Santa Claus. hahahhaha

Please Dong if you go out again please take someone with you just for safety.

Good job. Thumbs up from California.😀

20092008

christy kennedy(18:28:39) :

Hi Doug and everybody else,

I forwarded this post to my Saturday anti-war vigil friends here in Lawrence, Kansas. One of them wrote back, “Thanks for starting off my day by giving me some hope!” We’ve been out every Saturday since the fall of 2002 (plus candle light vigils and marches) and have watched the large percentage of angry fist shakers (and worse), and shouters, “Get a job xxxing hippies!” (among other genius remarks) slowly ebb down to one, two, or sometimes none, in an entire hour of downtown traffic. We’re a progressive, college town, but have our share of suburbia and Conservatives—and we’re an island of blue in a red state. Anyway, the smiling wavers and honkers now vastly outnumber the rest. And there are fewer of the deer-in-the-headlights types who don’t even realize what we’re doing, despite the signs that spell everything out. Anyway, thanks for an excellent web site, a great post, and for being out there with that sign!!! Love and admiration from a fellow sign holder.

20092008

cej(19:25:51) :

Thank-You!

20092008

GrammaConcept(19:27:28) :

BRAVO!!….
Your deed is an inspiration..
Your writing is absolutely…..good…’-)
an entertaining, edifying, pleasure to read…
Thank you on all levels from a kindred Spirit.
……We Strive On……..

[…] This is a wonderful blog entry how one man with a homemade sign can make a difference while expressing his opinion in front of a […]

20092008

deuce2AKA: Axe Diesel(20:24:40) :

@Cynthia, TX Thanks for the link. I live in Dekalb county and had no idea
about the terroist plan at the school. Damn, what a world we live in.

20092008

futurexpat?(20:42:48) :

I have been lurking here almost since I first heard Palin named as vice presidential choice. I wish I had found this site much sooner. I have been to Alaska five times since 2000; read the Anchorage paper online nearly every day; have friends there; and get the Alaska Magazine each publication. I’ve been through Wasilla many times and really saw it change from the first time I was there to the last time. At one point, my husband and I thought about retiring there, but that’s probably not going to happen, although we love the beauty and splendor that is Alaska. We’ve also spent enough time up there to know there are things that would drive us nuts, including the politics. How sad that Mr. Whitekeys is no longer there, except in issues of the magazine, although we’ll take him any way we can get him.

Speaking of lies, Keith Olbermann donated $3,800, at $100 a lie, last night to the Alaska Special Olympics for each lie Palin or her surrogates tells or repeats. He chose the Alaska Special Olympics as she cut funding for them.

I am a registered Independent living in Western PA. Doug has inspired me to get out there and volunteer for Obama/Biden. I can still remember the sick feeling I had for days after the 2004 election, and I can’t go through that again without knowing that I did something this time. Hopefully, I won’t have to go through it at all.

And speaking of the Alaska Magazine, the October 2008 issue has an article, highlighted on the front cover, titled “Who Needs the U.S.A? Secessionists Demand a New Vote on Statehood.”

This is a great site, and it gives me hope that there are a lot of people out there who think for themselves and don’t believe the lies being told and sold to us each day by the corporate media. It’s certainly the best source for information about Sarah Palin, who frankly terrifies me when none of the 9/11 stuff ever really did.

It’s amazing how the kettle korn guy is worried about kids witnessing your peaceful protest as he threatens to kick your behind, but ISN’T concerned with the Troopergate cover up BEFORE the election, not to mention the implications! Good work my friend!

Help Alaska Hockey Moms For Obama find out the truth on Palin. America deserves to know the truth about Palin BEFORE the election – without any interference from the GOP, delays, or conditions of any kind. Digg this story and sign the petition if you believe America has the right to know the truth before the election! Over 1600 names in 72 hours! We still need more names to make this happen!

A lot of folks here are encouraging you to continue your one-man show, but with more people; “bring your friends,” they say.

But if your friends are as brave, calm and cool-headed as you, I have a better suggestion to get more bang or the buck: spread out across town in dozens of one-man protests. In fact, how about Doug-style one-man protests across the nation by thousands in hundreds of of towns and cities?

I can’t believe how ridiculous her selection has made our entire country look.

21092008

Abra Bennett(00:34:55) :

Another hello and thank you from France. As an American living here I get a ton of questions about the elections, and so far I’ve not heard one single pro-McCain/Palin comment. Thanks for doing what lots of us wish we had done.

You really think you’d be better off with Hillary?
Vote for me.
I am a war hero and white.

21092008

willpower23(03:03:55) :

if more people were like u, democracy might actually have a shot.

21092008

fuzz(04:47:53) :

Next time someone quotes approval numbers to you tell them to go take a walk by the Governor’s Mansion and see how much Palin’s neighbors support her.

21092008

Billy(05:47:53) :

Pure garbage.. IF your so brave Doug go to Chicago and put up a Obama Lies sign.. Then see how the tolearant people treat you !!! Your lucky you live in a state where people are still civil down here if you live in an Obama area it is dangerous to cross his thugs.. GO MCCAIN PALIN TAKE AMERICA BACK !!!

21092008

mvngfwd aka WMD Cessna(06:04:39) :

@ Billy- There are plenty of sites for you to visit if you do not like the “energy” here. That is what makes America great…you can vote for who you want and I can vote for who I want. If you are really about “taking back America” just remember who you are taking it back from….the Republican/Bush administration. This is the same administration that McCain has voted with 90% of the time. So thus your choice of words are contraditory and uneducated at best. Godspeed on your endeavors regardless of how misguided they may be.

(The only one I didn’t see was Polar Bears for Obama, oh, how ‘bout “Bridges to Nowhere for Obama”)

On the right side, you can even select your state and get state-specific buttons.

Order soon, they are getting swamped!

21092008

Billy(06:18:46) :

Im sorry .. I thought this was a free comment area.. Remember who you are voting for.. Barack voted 100% with his liberal allies — the most liberal senator ever to run for president.. You are not only uneducated you are duped.. he went to a Church for 20 years but doesn’t remembered what was said .. The American people will not be fooled…

P.S.. If you don’t like hearing contrary viewpoints Moderate your site ..

21092008

zoeforce(06:34:39) :

Then I assume you are the kind of small business owner that makes less than $250,000 a year, which those who do mostly reinvest their earnings back into their small business, so of course you won’t be affected by the top 5% getting a tax increase. You won’t have to fire hard working Americans since you are below that 5%. Who speaks for the low man on the totem pole, who will lose his job when Barrak Obama taxes their employer into it?? It is not just the top 5% affected in a tax increase, it is the common folk who are employed by them! Wake UP “Obama Musical” LOVERS! Obama is the liar, when he claims only the top 5% will be affected with the tax increase. Do your homework people! Oh BTW, what did Palin lie about?? Other than the claims that Alaskans like you are intelligent? You are brave yes, superficial yes (haircut… please), politically intelligent I think not!

21092008

concernedcanadian(06:41:12) :

Billy,

My, My, aren’t we a tad testy this morning.? If you’ve made your way here, why don’t you take some of that pent up anger and actually read some articles and truths of the Sarah Palin crap that is being exposed on this great site? You won’t find a bunch of lies being told here. Perhaps then, you can come back to the comment section with a better view, and intelligently debate what your point actually is.

I think it is completely unfair for the media to focus on every little thing Sarah Palin does!!!! Did the New York Times send three reporters to delve into Obama’s background? Sarah Palin is a VP candidate and Obama is the Presidential candidate! Did journalists ever attempt to uncover if Obama ever sat at one of Rev. Wright’s incendiary sermons? Or what he actually accomplished as a community organizer? Has anyone interviewed residents of the slum housing project that Obama’s associates made millions from? Obama’s problem is that he has so many friends and associates where “guilt by association” is the explanation given by his campaign whenever asked about Rev. Wright, William Ayers, Dr. Khalid Abdullah Tariq al-Mansour (born Donald Warden) or Tony Rezko that one begins to wonder when we can declare the candidate just plain “guilty” of using horrendous judgment and question whether his connection to some of these characters actually goes beyond innocence of wrongdoing. Why doesn’t the media explore Obama’s middle-eastern connections? Or for that matter, Joe Biden’s relationship with MBNA? I just don’t think it’s fair to point the finger at Sarah Palin and give Obama and Biden a “free pass”.

21092008

Billy(06:56:30) :

Concernedcanadian,

Thank Goodness you can’t VOTE.. BTW: why do liberals always insult intelligence when addressing a response.. Perhaps, because you are so unsure of your own?

anyway.. I will visit this so-called “objective site” after the election and laugh at all of you who think Alaska is going to vote OBAMA.. I’m glad this shallow little world you live in makes you happy,

Best wishes and keep dreaming,

Billy🙂

21092008

Joe C(07:13:00) :

If it’s a question of intelligence, I think the London Daily Mirror said it best after our last presidential election with the headline, “How can 59054087 people be so DUMB?”

What is that they say about people who constantly repeat the same mistake and expect a different outcome?

21092008

Billy(07:33:30) :

Joe C, obviously another intelligent liberal using the ultra-liberal British press to disparage real americans..

Nice going Joe.. you people keep this up and you’ll ensure another 4 years of the life you hate..

It is nice to know that activitism in America is alive and well. I appaud you.

21092008

KTN aka Wood Corps Palin(10:23:09) :

IrishAnnie48-

why yes , yes they have , for the last oh …20 or so months …feel free to look up the public discourse on ALL things Obama related .

We have that information because he was willing to speak to just about ANYBODY on ANY subject .

now compare and contrast that , if you will , with Sarah’s record of meeting with the media and taking questions .

———————————————————–

21092008

Apphouse50(11:46:40) :

You are my hero, baby!

Don’t stop. Keep up the good work!

I’d like to fly up there and join you in your gutsy and very smart effort.

21092008

moondance(11:50:16) :

Love this blog! I’m commenting from the sunny South and sadly I’m not surprised the folks giving you so a hard time were Southern. I’m living on a blue island in an ocean of red!

Someone upthread said “Go McCain and Palin. Take America Back!” Huh??!! Seriously man, he wanted to privatize social security. Where would we be if he had had his way? He’s voted against veteran’s issues 80% of the time. I have to ask, take America back from whom? Himself?

21092008

KD(12:45:07) :

My wife and I were on one of those cruise ships for our honeymoon a little over a month ago. I’d have given you a thumbs up if I’d seen someone like you on the docks.🙂

21092008

Anonymous(13:01:51) :

Great story!

We are Canadians that were in Juneau in July. In fact on the cruise ship dock…and I believe I may have purchased kettle corn from the said kettle corn dealer.

It was the first I had heard of Sarah Palin. We took our kids “panning for gold” and the old “miner” told us about the Governer in very reserved terms. However I detected a hint of dislike from him. The only hint of negativity from him all day.

Surely the simplicity of her world view trumps Bush? Very scary for the U.S. and for the world.

21092008

American Guesser(13:13:39) :

Great Job!….i’d say yeah! do it again! If you don’t fight for what you believe, you’re liable to fall for anything they feed you.

21092008

Ripley_6 AKA Copper Catfish P.(13:20:33) :

She is not the only one…. watch this.

Pssst…. DO something!!

21092008

Ripley_6 AKA Copper Catfish P.(13:22:17) :

Ugh, my post didn’t post… watch, now it will be here twice!

Apparently, this is where McSarah learned her art…

DO something!!!

21092008

Susan(13:56:18) :

Thank you! Thank you! It takes guts to get out there and hold a sign up. We need to hear more from you.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Doug! Takes a lot of courage to stand up and be seen (and threatened). You have a lot of people who support you and are grateful for your efforts. Plus you tell a great story!🙂 Keep it up!

22092008

hnimrot(08:31:00) :

I know. There is something wrong with Palin.

22092008

FDR(21:12:25) :

PLEASE EMAIL WEBSITES, NEWSPAPERS, AND TV STATIONS TO STOP REPORTING ANY NEWS ABOUT PALIN. STOP COVERING OR BROADCASTING ANY OF HER EVENTS. DO NOT PRINT ANY GOP NEWS THAT INCLUDES HER NAME. IF THIS ALMOST WOMEN REFUSES TO HAVE A NEWS CONFERENCE, OR ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM THE PRESS WHY SHOULD SHE BE ALLOWED TO HAVE ANY COVERAGE OF HER SPEECHES OR COMMENTS. SHE REFUSES TO HAVE A 2 WAY CONVERSATION WITH AMERICA, SO BLACK LIST HER. WHY WOULDN’T SHE WANT US TO KNOW JUST HOW SMART SHE IS REGARDING THE ISSUES THAT BIDDEN, BARRACK AND MCCAIN ARE WILLING TO ANSWER. HELL SHE WENT TO 6 COLLEGES TO GET HER 4 YEAR DEGREE SO SHE MUST BE AS SHARP AS A TACK

[…] A few more articles that may be of interest. 6) Palin Lies: One Man’s Protest on the Juneau Cruise Ship Docks. (Governor doesn’t live […]

22092008

SEAlaskanWoman(22:23:27) :

ANOTHER PALIN LIE…
For you SE Alaskans here…remember when she campaigned here for Gov? I never believed her when she said over & over that she did not want to move the capital.
I saw this today & knew my initial instincts were correct. The “Co-Governor” (a.k.a. 1st Dude) pushing the wife’s hidden agenda.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2008/09/22/ST2008092200075.html
“John Harris, the Republican speaker of the Alaska House, said he had never been called by the spouse of a governor before the two calls he got from Todd Palin. One was to argue for moving the state capital to Anchorage. The other was to ask Harris to “keep an eye” on a key aide who had an affair with the wife of one of Todd’s best friends.
Political hands in both parties say the Palins are often referred to as a team — “Sarah and Todd” — and one Democratic lawmaker said Todd Palin has become her “de facto chief of staff.”

Great Work. My wife and I have our Obama sign out (still) in a fairly conservative area. Everyone needs to stand up and be counted or we will all be in for several more years of pain. The thought of a Palin presidency is truly scary.

My hat is off to you!

1112008

jan naples(03:44:22) :

for heaven sakes, I can’t stand Palin parading her kids all the time on campaign stage. It is dangerous, unhealthy and not becoming. I guess her husband cant
let his reigns off being involved. She should have gave up some of her
$150,000 of clothes and got a good nanny.
One question. Do her kids go to school.

It appears when her little girl talks to her and doesnt answer her right, Sarah gets real angry at her?? Am I right.

I really can’t take to Palins screeching voice and how dare she keep constantly
in every darn speech, say nothing but bad about Obama and Biden.

Please tell me Alaskans, is she really Saint Sarah??
She just sickens me and I hope you will be taking her back after election and keep her there forever. What a horrible cold hearted human being she is
or is that she is plain dumb?